Aug. 23, 2016
AUBURN, Ala. ÃÆ'Æ'¢ÃƒÆ'¢'¬" Depth is the best way to describe the Auburn volleyball outside hitters for the 2016 season as the position group brings back all of its production from a year ago.
The two top hitters from 2015 return in junior Courtney Crable (Louisville, Ky.) and Brenna McIlroy (Garland, Texas). The pair finished with 333 kills apiece, while Crable had a 2.82 kills per set average over 118 sets played.
The duo is expected to make an immediate impact on the team again this year and will bring a high level of leadership to the position.
"Courtney is one of the best 'bad ball' hitters I've ever had and that's a skill that is incredibly needed in this sport," head coach Rick Nold said. "I thought we did a good job last year of getting her into better situations and that really helped her game out. She has been a really good leader this preseason, helping the younger players understand the systems."
McIlroy brought a level of excitement to the court as a freshman in 2015, playing in all 121 sets for the Tigers. The sophomore was recognized for her consistent impact on the team, being placed on the SEC All-Freshman team.
"Brenna is definitely a spark plug," Nold said. "We're going to find ways to move her around and play a really quick attack. It's something that is difficult to defend and it will make us a more effective team offensively."
Returning with McIlroy and Crable is senior Leticia (CiCi) Silva (Lavras, Brazil) and junior Macy Reece (Hendersonville, Tenn.). Both bring power to the outside position and are going compete for a spot in the starting lineup.
"CiCi is a player that can come in and hit at both pins," Nold said. "She brings a lot of energy to the court and is our strongest attacker that can go both left or ride side for us.
"Macy had a great summer and has really brought it this preseason," Nold added. "She has great size for an outside hitter and has already been more explosive this year. She has a lot of confidence in her game and is definitely someone we see as a leader on the team."
Joining the already experienced group of hitters are freshmen Enija Bidzane (Talsi, Latvia) and Karis Beasley (Granbury, Texas). Bidzane brings a wealth of international experience, while Beasley is a versatile player that can make an impact at both the net and in the back row.
"Enija is a very experienced player that brings the most well-rounded game in terms of shots," Nold said. "She has a strong attack and her experiences playing in Europe allows her to hit both left and right sides.
"Karis is an athlete that can really jump and hit the ball," Nold continued. "She will provide a lot of depth and will be a great weapon in the back row."
The Tigers open the 2016 season in Auburn Arena, hosting the War Eagle Invitational, Aug. 26-27. Auburn is set to welcome Georgia Tech, Furman and Pacific for the two-day tournament and will take on the Yellow Jackets Friday at 7 p.m. to kick off the year.
Stay tuned as AuburnTigers.com will take a look at the middle blockers Wednesday, Aug. 24!
For the latest on Auburn volleyball, follow @AuburnVB on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AuburnVB.