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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Status Quo St. Maries Idaho Volleyball Teams Open Season Tuesday

A North Idaho high school volleyball team is expected to defend its state championship this fall.

What’s new, you ask? Obvious answer, you say.

Try again. St. Maries, the obvious answer for the past 10 years, will be seeking to return to the top of the State A-2 mountain. Sandpoint, meanwhile, will be trying to stay at the top of the A-1 heap.

And Wallace, which helped carry the Panhandle banner proudly last season by capturing the State A-3 title, would love to make it two straight.

Area teams open the 1995 season as early as Tuesday. Here’s a look at the teams in the state’s four divisions and what it will take to qualify for state:

A-1

Sandpoint coach Jeff Hurst has guided the Bulldogs back to a familiar perch.

Once the state power a decade ago, the Bulldogs, who return four starters, are heavily favored to repeat.

“We’re exactly where we left off last year, if not better than we left off,” Hurst said matter of factly.

Hurst is blessed with a fearsome middle duo of seniors Alli Nieman and Tiwi Bond. The ball will be set religiously in the center of the net at Sandpoint.

At least one coach sees Sandpoint having an easy time repeating.

“Sandpoint should have a cakewalk this year,” St. Maries coach Mitch Santos said. “(Sandpoint) made it harder than it had to be last year at state.”

Sandpoint strolled to Inland Empire League and regional championships last year, and the Bulldogs should perform the same feats this fall.

But Lake City, which will host the State A-1 and A-2 tournaments Oct. 27-28, hopes to give Sandpoint fits.

“We want to be a playing host at state,” LC coach Kent Scanlon said.

The IEL automatically will send one team to state from the Region I Tournament. The regional runnerup will advance to a playoff for a state berth.

A-2

You have to go back to 1984 to find the last time St. Maries didn’t open the season as the defending champion.

Will the Lumberjacks start a new streak this year?

“My girls have brought it up (in conversation),” Santos said. “We’re shooting to win a state championship. We don’t play for second.”

Santos said his team begins the season with no pressure - unlike the teams that carried the burden in recent years of extending several streaks.

“The pressure was taken off last year,” Santos said. “Most of the kids on the team haven’t earned a varsity letter. Most of the years, we’ve brought back five or six players with experience. The kids are young, they make more errors in practice than I’ve seen in other teams, but they’re reducing their errors.”

Still, St. Maries shouldn’t have problems repeating as Intermountain League and district champion.

The IML will send two teams to state from district.

The state tournament, which will be held at Lake City, is Oct. 27-28.

A-3

The Panhandle is home to one A-3 team. But it’s no ordinary team.

Wallace, once the laughingstock of area volleyball programs, is enjoying its view from the top.

With standout middle hitter Joy Sperry leading the way, the Miners will be difficult to dethrone.

As an independent, Wallace must qualify for state through the traditionally tough District II tournament.

State will be held Oct. 27-28 at College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls.

A-4

Falls Christian Academy literally came out of nowhere last year as a No. 4 seed, shocking North Star League teams by capturing the district championship and advancing to state.

League play is expected to be tight this season.

The NSL will send one team to state. If FCA doesn’t repeat, keep an eye on historically strong Clark Fork.

State will be held Oct. 27-28 at College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls.

, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Photo

MEMO: Four sidebars appeared with the story: 1. INTERMOUNTAIN In predicted order of finish:

1. St. Maries Lumberjacks 1994 record: 10-0 league champs, 27-4 state runner-up Coach: Mitch Santos Years coaching: 17 Key returners: Angie Epler, 5-3 sr., oh/back row; Amanda Tams, 5-10 sr., mh; Devon Hammes, 5-1 sr., br. Top newcomers: Bridgette O’Dwyer, 5-9 soph., mh; Jamie Hammes, 5-8 freshman, oh; Alicia Adams, 5-4, soph., setter. Quick sets: The Lumberjacks’ top returning hitter, junior Kari Burg, is out for the season with a broken bone in her foot. The loss of Burg makes an already young team younger. Coach’s comment: “(Teams) better take their shots at us early. As the season progresses this team is going to get tougher and tougher.” Outlook: The loss of Burg is critical, but not insurmountable, Santos said. The Lumberjacks may not return a name player - like a Debbie Martin, Brandy Ross or Sonnet Farrell - but Santos said he has players with similar potential. Though Santos will field his youngest team ever, the goal is the same: a state championship.

2. Bonners Ferry Badgers 1994 record: 7-3, 20-8 fourth at state Coach: Janis Tucker Years coaching: 13 Key returners: Eanna Aaron, 5-8 jr., oh; Jessica Venard, 6-0 sr., mh. Top newcomers: Rachel Downing, 5-7 jr., oh; Sarah Knott, 5-10 sr., oh; Sarah Smith, 5-9 sr., oh; Sarah Walter, 5-2 soph., setter. Quick sets: The Badgers are coming off their most successful season in school history, and they don’t plan on resting on their laurels. Coach’s comment: “I think I have a more cohesive group to start with this year than last year. We’re passing much better than we were at this time last year. And our serving is much more consistent.” Outlook: The Badgers have some holes to fill, especially in the front row. But Aaron, who could be the top player in the league, will be counted on to carry much of the offensive load. The Badgers will have to fend off Lakeland and Kellogg, teams that figure to challenge for runner-up honors.

3. Lakeland Hawks 1994 record: 5-5, 9-13 Coach: Claudia Collins Years coaching: 16 Key returners: Jenni Borg, 5-9 sr., oh; Rachael MacMullen, 5-6 sr., setter; Cora Christensen, 5-9 sr., mh; Amber Jamison, 5-10 jr., oh/mh; Sara Chiappe, 5-9 sr., oh; Jami Derting, 5-6 sr., br. Top newcomers: Jessica McBride, 5-6 jr., oh; Meghann Maiani, 5-8 sr., br. Quick sets: After falling from its usual bridesmaid spot in league last year, Lakeland is poised to take a run at second. Coach’s comment: “One of the strong things we have this year is senior leadership. Jenni (Borg), Sara (Chiappe) and Cora (Christensen) have played on varsity since they were sophomores. This group is very, very coachable.” Outlook: If a couple of players shine as expected, the Hawks could give the Lumberjacks all they can handle. Lakeland will pick the best time to play its best volleyball - at the district tournament.

4. Kellogg Wildcats 1994 record: 4-6, 11-12 Coach: Lisa Holzer Years coaching: 4 Key returners: Cassidy Beamis, 5-5 jr., setter; Melissa Hei, 5-8 jr., oh; Janelle Baillie, 5-10 jr., mh; Amy Lemon, 5-7 jr., setter/br; Marcy Swift, 5-7 jr., br. Top newcomers: Pauline Costa, 5-8 jr., mh; Jenny Goodson, 5-9 jr., oh; Joey Luchini, 5-10 jr., oh/setter. Quick sets: Kellogg may be a year away from cracking into the top two. But a talented junior class hopes to show up a year early. Coach’s comment: “We’re after second place. We know we have to work hard. All the teams in league lost some key people; it depends on which team fills the holes the fastest.” Outlook: Holzer hopes what her team may lack in experience can be made up in potential. What could hold the Wildcats back is a possible lack of offensive depth to go toe to toe with St. Maries, Bonners Ferry and Lakeland.

5. Moscow Bears 1994 record: 4-6, 4-15 Coach: Amy Thompson Years coaching: First Key returners: Amy Lemm, 5-8 sr., oh; Angie Gibson, 5-11 jr., oh; Stefanie Reynolds, 5-7 sr., oh. Top newcomers: Danna Wilder, 5-10 jr., mh. Quick sets: Thompson is the Bears’ fourth coach in four years. She hopes to put a stop to the coaching carousel. Former Idaho Vandal standout Dee Porter is an assistant. Coach’s comment: “We have no starters back, so we have a lot of work ahead of us. We’re real untested.” Outlook: The Bears will struggle, but it won’t be because of a lack of athletes. The coaching turnover has taken a toll on the program, and the athletes have unfortunately suffered the consequences.

6. Priest River Spartans 1994 record: 0-10, 3-20 Coach: Carie Shugart Years coaching: 3 Key returners: Abbie Stensland, 5-7 sr., oh; Monica Ruiz, 5-3 sr., br; Sara Suchocki, 5-3 sr., setter; Carlyn Hughes, 5-7 sr., oh; Christy Coyle, 5-10 jr., mh. Top newcomers: Renie Stiles, 5-6 sr., oh; Katie Peterson, 5-3 jr., setter; Jacey Vogrig, 5-11 soph., mh. Quick sets: Priest River hasn’t placed a player on the allleague team in recent years. This may be the year a Spartan earns all-league honors. Coach’s comment: “We’re definitely more experienced than last year. Last year, we weren’t able to close out matches when we had the opportunity. I’m very optimistic we’ll be able to do that this year.” Outlook:Shugart declined to be specific, but she expects several players to be much improved this season. If that’s the case, the Spartans may be able to leapfrog past Moscow and avoid a last-place finish.

Players to watch (In no particular order) 1. Eanna Aaron, 5-foot-8 junior, outside hitter, Bonners Ferry 2. Jenni Borg, 5-9 senior, outside hitter, Lakeland 3. Alicia Adams, 5-4 sophomore, setter, St. Maries 4. Jessica Venard, 6-0 senior, middle hitter, Bonners Ferry 5. Melissa Hei, 5-8 junior, outside hitter, Kellogg 6. Cora Christensen, 5-9 senior, middle hitter, Lakeland

2. INLAND EMPIRE In predicted order of finish:

1. Sandpoint Bulldogs 1994 record: 8-0 IEL champs, 25-10 overall state champs Coach: Jeff Hurst Years coaching: 3 Key returners: Alli Nieman, 6-1 sr., mh; Tiwi Bond, 6-0 sr., mh; Tanya Allmaras, 5-8 sr., oh; Stacy Moline, 5-7 sr., setter; Jenna Verby, 5-7 sr., oh. Top newcomers: Keiki Lovell, 5-5 sr., br; Becky Timblin, 5-4 sr., br; Mandy Ringhand, 5-11 jr., oh. Quick sets: Repeating as state champion wouldn’t be a first at Sandpoint, the former A-1 powerhouse in the early 1980s. The Bulldogs will be heavily favored to repeat for the first time since winning five straight titles (1982-86). Coach’s comment: “I’m challenging them to stay at the top. We’re going to have to work hard to win (state) again. We don’t have the attitude that we’re going to walk all over everybody.” Outlook: If the Bulldogs had just Nieman returning, they’d still be favored to defend their title. Complement Nieman in the middle with Bond and several other capable weapons and the Bulldogs ultimately could steamroll opponents.

2. Lake City Timberwolves 1994 record: 3-5, 8-15 Coach: Kent Scanlon Years coaching: 21, 9 at Coeur d’Alene, 2nd at LC Key returners: Jenny Owen, 5-3 sr., oh; Natalie Telford, 5-9 sr., mb; Sarah Perry, 5-8 jr., setter; Laura Tolzmann, 5-7 sr., br. Top newcomers: Missy Asher, 6-1 sr., oh; Ali Asher, 6-3 sophomore, mh; Lindsay Herbert, 5-11 soph., mh; Jenna Orton, 5-7 jr., oh. Quick sets: The Asher sisters, transfers from St. Maries, give the Timberwolves considerably more height at the net and a deeper bench. Coach’s comment: “From the No. 1 girl to the No. 13 girl, this is the most skilled team I’ve ever had since I’ve been in Coeur d’Alene. I’ve had better players, but this is easily the deepest team I’ve had.” Outlook: The T-Wolves most likely will be the only team that can challenge Sandpoint for league and regional championships. There may not be a better team leader in the league than the peppy Owen, whose charismatic and competitive personality is infectious.

3. Lewiston Bengals 1994 record: 4-4, 10-13 Coach: Laura Horton Years coaching: 2 Key returners: Andrea Gomez, 5-8 sr., oh/setter; Laura Bloom, 6-2 jr., mh; Stephania Hunt, 5-7 sr., oh; Courtney Kilgore, 5-2 sr., br; Vicki Smith, 5-6 jr., br/setter; Kari Alldredge, 5-11 jr., mh. Top newcomers: Annie Foster, 5-8 jr., oh; Brianna Martin, 5-8 jr., oh. Quick sets: The Bengals shocked many last year when they finished runner-up in the regional tournament before losing to Nampa in a playoff match for a state berth. The Bengals believe they’ll challenge for a state berth. Coach’s comment: “We have a legitimate shot at making a run at a state berth. Our only concern is our passing.” Outlook: If Sandpoint or Lake City stumbles, Lewiston is the team that can take advantage of such an opportunity. The Bengals will have a say in crowning league and regional champions.

4. Coeur d’Alene Vikings 1994 record: 1-7, 10-15 Coach: Karla Mitchell Years coaching: 2 Key returners: Kimi Towery, 5-7 jr., setter; Angie Shirley, 6-1 jr., mh; Jill Pederson, 5-9 sr., oh; Kylee Stolp, 5-4 sr., oh; Jenny Lee, 5-8 sr., oh; Kim Pearson, 5-10 sr., mh. Top newcomers: Lena Anthony, 5-4 sr., br/oh; Jessica Janke, 5-10 jr., oh (transfer from Lake City). Quick sets: The Vikings return the most experience, but as Mitchell says it may not matter because the favored teams appear to be stronger than they were last year. Coach’s comment: “We’re a better team, I just don’t know where we’re going to be with the other teams. We’re anxious to see how much we’ve improved.” Outlook: A year’s experience will make a huge difference for the Viks, but it may not show up as wins in league matches. With five juniors, CdA is a year away from causing upper division teams much concern. The Viks open the season short-handed. Shirley will be out about a month with a broken right wrist and Pederson sprained an ankle in the jamboree Thursday.

5. Post Falls Trojans 1994 record: 4-4, 12-12 Coach: Karla Merrill Years coaching: 17, 9th at Post Falls Key returners: Heidi Umthun, 5-8 sr., oh; Tarra Thomson, 5-9 sr., mh; Brittany Murphy, 5-7 sr., setter; Nicole Irons, 5-6 sr., br. Top newcomers: Lyndsy Klaudt, 5-6 jr., oh; Jessica Waltz, 5-10 jr., mh; Rachel Edmonds, 5-7 soph., setter. Quick sets: The Trojans return the least experience of league teams, but Merrill has nothing but praise for an athletic junior class. Coach’s comment: “We’re going to grow and make great strides as the season progresses. We’re confident that by the end of the year all the skills and technique will catch up.” Outlook: Inflated optimism? Perhaps. If the Trojans mature as quickly as Merrill anticipates, they may nip at the ankles of the favorites. Most likely scenario? Trojans lay foundation for next year.

Players to watch (In no particular order) 1. Alli Nieman, 6-foot-1 senior, middle hitter, Sandpoint 2. Jenny Owen, 5-4 senior, outside hitter, Lake City 3. Andrea Gomez, 5-8 senior, outside hitter, Lewiston 4. Tiwi Bond, 6-0 senior, middle hitter, Sandpoint 5. Angie Shirley, 6-1 junior, middle hitter, Coeur d’Alene 6. Laura Bloom, 6-2 junior, middle hitter, Lewiston 7. Sarah Perry, 5-8 junior, setter, Lake City

3. A-3 INDEPENDENT, WALLACE Miners’ 1994 record: 23-2, State A-3 champs Coach: Dick Schreiber. Years coaching: 6 Top returners: Joy Sperry, 6-foot senior, middle hitter; Dana Streeter, 5-8 sr., mh; Jonni Hill, 5-4, junior outside hitter; Lisa Calabretta, 5-8 jr., oh. Key newcomers: Toya Bailey, 5-3 soph., setter; Natalie Bailey, 5-3 frosh., back row. Coach’s comment: Senior middle hitter Joy Sperry might be the most recruited volleyball player in the state, Schreiber said. Twenty to 30 schools seek the 6-foot all-stater. “Joy is better than last year. She’s going to be just tremendous in the middle with aggressive hits,” Schreiber said. Outlook:The development of Toya Bailey at setter will be key for the Miners. Bailey started working for that role after school last spring. The road to a return trip to state for the Miners may go through Orofino or Clearwater Valley.

4. NORTH STAR In predicted order of finish:

1. Falls Christian Eagles 1994 record: 4-4 league, 14-13 overall, District I champ Coach: Danica Belleque. Years coaching: First Key returners: Sarah Peterson, 5-8 senior, middle blocker/ outside hitter; Audrey Wallace, 5-6 sr., back row/oh; Latisha Taylor, 5-foot junior, setter; Becky Straw, 5-3 jr., br/oh. Top newcomers: Sally Lyons, 5-6, jr., oh; Leisl Runkle, 5-2, jr. Quick sets: Last year’s NSL coach of the year, Marlo Hutchison, has returned to Northwest College in Kirkland, Wash., where she is also playing volleyball. Belleque, a former University of Colorado player, inherits seven returning players off last year’s district title team with her first volleyball coaching job. Coach’s comment: “They are very scrappy. We don’t have a lot of height, so we’re looking at other means of getting the job done. They’re very, very coachable girls.” Outlook: Peterson and Wallace are a reliable and dangerous twosome poised to lead Falls back to state. Belleque hasn’t had time to scout the NSL. She’s mainly concerned with getting her team ready for the season.

Clark Fork Wampus Cats 1994 record: 6-2 league champ, 17-9 Coach: Sandy Ross. Years coaching: 14 Key returners: Hailey Scofield, 5-8 sr., setter; Sasha Storaasli, 5-8 sr., oh; Angie Ponack, 5-9 sr., mh; Donella Pratt, 5-7 sr., mh; Adrianna Malley, 5-4, sr., setter. Top newcomers: Darlene Yanik, 5-4, jr., br; Erin Manderscheid, 5-4, soph., setter. Quick sets: The Cats return eight off last year’s varsity, led by Scofield, who moves from outside hitter to setter, which is her position on an area elite age-division team. “Her transition is pretty natural,” Ross said. “Hailey will still be able to hit the ball quite a bit.” Coach’s comment: “It’s an interesting mix of new faces and returning players. I think we’ll be hearing a lot from my players.” Outlook: Ross said the league seems to change a little bit every year. “That’s what makes it enjoyable,” Ross said. “There is no doubt that Falls Christian is wearing the bull’s-eye, being the previous district champions.” Clark Fork debuts Thursday at Wallace against the defending state A-3 champions. “We consider it an honor that they wish to open with us, too. That’s a match we look forward to.”

3. Kootenai Warriors 1994 record: 4-4, 12-12 Coach: Jeff Walker. Years coaching: 2 Key returners: Jayme Flint, 5-7 sr., oh; Christy Raivio, 5-4 sr., s; Danyel Hunter, 6-0 jr., mb; Lindsey Kraack, 5-7 jr., oh/mb. Top newcomers: Natalie Damiano, 5-5, soph., oh/br; Jayme Bornitz, 5-10 soph., oh/mb. Quick sets: Convenience is one reason Walker doesn’t run two-a-day preseason practices. Instead, the Warriors have one 3-hour session. “I can definitely hold their attention; that’s not their problem.” Coach’s comment: Flint will be a weapon. “She is an excellent bumper. She passes the ball well. “Right now, she’s our strongest hitter, which is a big improvement from last year.” Outlook: Six players return off last year’s district runner-up team. “We’re going to be very competitive,” Walker said. “We will smack the ball at some people. We’re changing some things on defense to get more tipped balls.” The NSL was tight last year, and Walker anticipates more of the same.

4. Lakeside Knights 1994 record: 2-6, 4-15 Coach: Brad Veile. Years coaching: 5 Key returners: Jennifer Niebuhr, 5-7 sr., setter/oh; Ruth Brand, 5-2, sr., setter/oh; Harmony Hammons, 5-10 jr., mb. Top newcomers: Bernie Twoteeth, 5-7 jr., oh; Alecia Hoffman, 5-8 jr., mb. Quick sets: Niebuhr and Brand anchor the Knights, as fourthyear varsity players. “They’re definitely veterans,” Veile said. “They’re kind of the mainstays for the team. They’ve got the experience.” Coach’s comment: Skillwise, Lakeside is ahead of where it was at this time last season, and that’s a sign of coaching stability. “They know what I expect of them. We’ve been changing offenses. All that shows that volleyball knowledge has increased. Looking at basic skills, willingness to try something new, the girls have come a long way.” Outlook: Lakeside may not have enough weapons to challenge for a league championship, but Veile hopes the changes in his team’s offense combined with his top players’ experience will make the Knights competitive.

5. Mullan Tigers 1994 record: 4-4, 6-11 Coach: Shanon Pooler. Years coaching: First Key returners: Kristina Elwood, 5-4 sr., setter; Misti Machuga, 5-10 sr., mb; Katie Elwood, 5-7 soph., oh. Top newcomers: Tiffany Hoven, frosh., 5-4 setter/br; Lori Angle, 5-7 soph., oh; Cecily Pemble, 5-0 jr., br. Quick sets: Mullan graduated just one senior from its program last year. Seven players are returners among the 11 who reported for the first practice. The roster may increase by six once school starts. Coach’s comment: “What I’m stressing as a new coach is a real, solid team philosophy. Everything we do is team-orientated. Early in the season, it’s rubbing off well on the girls. They’ve really taken it to heart.” Outlook: Don’t let Pooler fool you, he may be a first-year volleyball coach, but he’s not new to North Idaho athletics. He will be a fourth-year basketball official. He is well aware of the league’s talent. “Anybody could win this thing,” he said.

NOTE: North Idaho Christian of Hayden Lake has joined the Idaho High School Activities Association as an associate member. NIC hopes to be a full member next year and plans to join the NSL. NIC is not eligible for postseason tournaments.

Players to watch (In no particular order) 1. Jayme Flint, 5-foot-7 senior, outside hitter, Kootenai 2. Sarah Peterson, 5-8 senior, middle blocker/outside hitter, Falls Christian 3. Hailey Scofield, 5-8 senior, setter, Clark Fork 4. Jennifer Niebuhr, 5-7 senior, setter/outside hitter, Lakeside 5. Katie Elwood, 5-7 sophomore, outside hitter, Mullan

Four sidebars appeared with the story: 1. INTERMOUNTAIN In predicted order of finish:

1. St. Maries Lumberjacks 1994 record: 10-0 league champs, 27-4 state runner-up Coach: Mitch Santos Years coaching: 17 Key returners: Angie Epler, 5-3 sr., oh/back row; Amanda Tams, 5-10 sr., mh; Devon Hammes, 5-1 sr., br. Top newcomers: Bridgette O’Dwyer, 5-9 soph., mh; Jamie Hammes, 5-8 freshman, oh; Alicia Adams, 5-4, soph., setter. Quick sets: The Lumberjacks’ top returning hitter, junior Kari Burg, is out for the season with a broken bone in her foot. The loss of Burg makes an already young team younger. Coach’s comment: “(Teams) better take their shots at us early. As the season progresses this team is going to get tougher and tougher.” Outlook: The loss of Burg is critical, but not insurmountable, Santos said. The Lumberjacks may not return a name player - like a Debbie Martin, Brandy Ross or Sonnet Farrell - but Santos said he has players with similar potential. Though Santos will field his youngest team ever, the goal is the same: a state championship.

2. Bonners Ferry Badgers 1994 record: 7-3, 20-8 fourth at state Coach: Janis Tucker Years coaching: 13 Key returners: Eanna Aaron, 5-8 jr., oh; Jessica Venard, 6-0 sr., mh. Top newcomers: Rachel Downing, 5-7 jr., oh; Sarah Knott, 5-10 sr., oh; Sarah Smith, 5-9 sr., oh; Sarah Walter, 5-2 soph., setter. Quick sets: The Badgers are coming off their most successful season in school history, and they don’t plan on resting on their laurels. Coach’s comment: “I think I have a more cohesive group to start with this year than last year. We’re passing much better than we were at this time last year. And our serving is much more consistent.” Outlook: The Badgers have some holes to fill, especially in the front row. But Aaron, who could be the top player in the league, will be counted on to carry much of the offensive load. The Badgers will have to fend off Lakeland and Kellogg, teams that figure to challenge for runner-up honors.

3. Lakeland Hawks 1994 record: 5-5, 9-13 Coach: Claudia Collins Years coaching: 16 Key returners: Jenni Borg, 5-9 sr., oh; Rachael MacMullen, 5-6 sr., setter; Cora Christensen, 5-9 sr., mh; Amber Jamison, 5-10 jr., oh/mh; Sara Chiappe, 5-9 sr., oh; Jami Derting, 5-6 sr., br. Top newcomers: Jessica McBride, 5-6 jr., oh; Meghann Maiani, 5-8 sr., br. Quick sets: After falling from its usual bridesmaid spot in league last year, Lakeland is poised to take a run at second. Coach’s comment: “One of the strong things we have this year is senior leadership. Jenni (Borg), Sara (Chiappe) and Cora (Christensen) have played on varsity since they were sophomores. This group is very, very coachable.” Outlook: If a couple of players shine as expected, the Hawks could give the Lumberjacks all they can handle. Lakeland will pick the best time to play its best volleyball - at the district tournament.

4. Kellogg Wildcats 1994 record: 4-6, 11-12 Coach: Lisa Holzer Years coaching: 4 Key returners: Cassidy Beamis, 5-5 jr., setter; Melissa Hei, 5-8 jr., oh; Janelle Baillie, 5-10 jr., mh; Amy Lemon, 5-7 jr., setter/br; Marcy Swift, 5-7 jr., br. Top newcomers: Pauline Costa, 5-8 jr., mh; Jenny Goodson, 5-9 jr., oh; Joey Luchini, 5-10 jr., oh/setter. Quick sets: Kellogg may be a year away from cracking into the top two. But a talented junior class hopes to show up a year early. Coach’s comment: “We’re after second place. We know we have to work hard. All the teams in league lost some key people; it depends on which team fills the holes the fastest.” Outlook: Holzer hopes what her team may lack in experience can be made up in potential. What could hold the Wildcats back is a possible lack of offensive depth to go toe to toe with St. Maries, Bonners Ferry and Lakeland.

5. Moscow Bears 1994 record: 4-6, 4-15 Coach: Amy Thompson Years coaching: First Key returners: Amy Lemm, 5-8 sr., oh; Angie Gibson, 5-11 jr., oh; Stefanie Reynolds, 5-7 sr., oh. Top newcomers: Danna Wilder, 5-10 jr., mh. Quick sets: Thompson is the Bears’ fourth coach in four years. She hopes to put a stop to the coaching carousel. Former Idaho Vandal standout Dee Porter is an assistant. Coach’s comment: “We have no starters back, so we have a lot of work ahead of us. We’re real untested.” Outlook: The Bears will struggle, but it won’t be because of a lack of athletes. The coaching turnover has taken a toll on the program, and the athletes have unfortunately suffered the consequences.

6. Priest River Spartans 1994 record: 0-10, 3-20 Coach: Carie Shugart Years coaching: 3 Key returners: Abbie Stensland, 5-7 sr., oh; Monica Ruiz, 5-3 sr., br; Sara Suchocki, 5-3 sr., setter; Carlyn Hughes, 5-7 sr., oh; Christy Coyle, 5-10 jr., mh. Top newcomers: Renie Stiles, 5-6 sr., oh; Katie Peterson, 5-3 jr., setter; Jacey Vogrig, 5-11 soph., mh. Quick sets: Priest River hasn’t placed a player on the allleague team in recent years. This may be the year a Spartan earns all-league honors. Coach’s comment: “We’re definitely more experienced than last year. Last year, we weren’t able to close out matches when we had the opportunity. I’m very optimistic we’ll be able to do that this year.” Outlook:Shugart declined to be specific, but she expects several players to be much improved this season. If that’s the case, the Spartans may be able to leapfrog past Moscow and avoid a last-place finish.

Players to watch (In no particular order) 1. Eanna Aaron, 5-foot-8 junior, outside hitter, Bonners Ferry 2. Jenni Borg, 5-9 senior, outside hitter, Lakeland 3. Alicia Adams, 5-4 sophomore, setter, St. Maries 4. Jessica Venard, 6-0 senior, middle hitter, Bonners Ferry 5. Melissa Hei, 5-8 junior, outside hitter, Kellogg 6. Cora Christensen, 5-9 senior, middle hitter, Lakeland

2. INLAND EMPIRE In predicted order of finish:

1. Sandpoint Bulldogs 1994 record: 8-0 IEL champs, 25-10 overall state champs Coach: Jeff Hurst Years coaching: 3 Key returners: Alli Nieman, 6-1 sr., mh; Tiwi Bond, 6-0 sr., mh; Tanya Allmaras, 5-8 sr., oh; Stacy Moline, 5-7 sr., setter; Jenna Verby, 5-7 sr., oh. Top newcomers: Keiki Lovell, 5-5 sr., br; Becky Timblin, 5-4 sr., br; Mandy Ringhand, 5-11 jr., oh. Quick sets: Repeating as state champion wouldn’t be a first at Sandpoint, the former A-1 powerhouse in the early 1980s. The Bulldogs will be heavily favored to repeat for the first time since winning five straight titles (1982-86). Coach’s comment: “I’m challenging them to stay at the top. We’re going to have to work hard to win (state) again. We don’t have the attitude that we’re going to walk all over everybody.” Outlook: If the Bulldogs had just Nieman returning, they’d still be favored to defend their title. Complement Nieman in the middle with Bond and several other capable weapons and the Bulldogs ultimately could steamroll opponents.

2. Lake City Timberwolves 1994 record: 3-5, 8-15 Coach: Kent Scanlon Years coaching: 21, 9 at Coeur d’Alene, 2nd at LC Key returners: Jenny Owen, 5-3 sr., oh; Natalie Telford, 5-9 sr., mb; Sarah Perry, 5-8 jr., setter; Laura Tolzmann, 5-7 sr., br. Top newcomers: Missy Asher, 6-1 sr., oh; Ali Asher, 6-3 sophomore, mh; Lindsay Herbert, 5-11 soph., mh; Jenna Orton, 5-7 jr., oh. Quick sets: The Asher sisters, transfers from St. Maries, give the Timberwolves considerably more height at the net and a deeper bench. Coach’s comment: “From the No. 1 girl to the No. 13 girl, this is the most skilled team I’ve ever had since I’ve been in Coeur d’Alene. I’ve had better players, but this is easily the deepest team I’ve had.” Outlook: The T-Wolves most likely will be the only team that can challenge Sandpoint for league and regional championships. There may not be a better team leader in the league than the peppy Owen, whose charismatic and competitive personality is infectious.

3. Lewiston Bengals 1994 record: 4-4, 10-13 Coach: Laura Horton Years coaching: 2 Key returners: Andrea Gomez, 5-8 sr., oh/setter; Laura Bloom, 6-2 jr., mh; Stephania Hunt, 5-7 sr., oh; Courtney Kilgore, 5-2 sr., br; Vicki Smith, 5-6 jr., br/setter; Kari Alldredge, 5-11 jr., mh. Top newcomers: Annie Foster, 5-8 jr., oh; Brianna Martin, 5-8 jr., oh. Quick sets: The Bengals shocked many last year when they finished runner-up in the regional tournament before losing to Nampa in a playoff match for a state berth. The Bengals believe they’ll challenge for a state berth. Coach’s comment: “We have a legitimate shot at making a run at a state berth. Our only concern is our passing.” Outlook: If Sandpoint or Lake City stumbles, Lewiston is the team that can take advantage of such an opportunity. The Bengals will have a say in crowning league and regional champions.

4. Coeur d’Alene Vikings 1994 record: 1-7, 10-15 Coach: Karla Mitchell Years coaching: 2 Key returners: Kimi Towery, 5-7 jr., setter; Angie Shirley, 6-1 jr., mh; Jill Pederson, 5-9 sr., oh; Kylee Stolp, 5-4 sr., oh; Jenny Lee, 5-8 sr., oh; Kim Pearson, 5-10 sr., mh. Top newcomers: Lena Anthony, 5-4 sr., br/oh; Jessica Janke, 5-10 jr., oh (transfer from Lake City). Quick sets: The Vikings return the most experience, but as Mitchell says it may not matter because the favored teams appear to be stronger than they were last year. Coach’s comment: “We’re a better team, I just don’t know where we’re going to be with the other teams. We’re anxious to see how much we’ve improved.” Outlook: A year’s experience will make a huge difference for the Viks, but it may not show up as wins in league matches. With five juniors, CdA is a year away from causing upper division teams much concern. The Viks open the season short-handed. Shirley will be out about a month with a broken right wrist and Pederson sprained an ankle in the jamboree Thursday.

5. Post Falls Trojans 1994 record: 4-4, 12-12 Coach: Karla Merrill Years coaching: 17, 9th at Post Falls Key returners: Heidi Umthun, 5-8 sr., oh; Tarra Thomson, 5-9 sr., mh; Brittany Murphy, 5-7 sr., setter; Nicole Irons, 5-6 sr., br. Top newcomers: Lyndsy Klaudt, 5-6 jr., oh; Jessica Waltz, 5-10 jr., mh; Rachel Edmonds, 5-7 soph., setter. Quick sets: The Trojans return the least experience of league teams, but Merrill has nothing but praise for an athletic junior class. Coach’s comment: “We’re going to grow and make great strides as the season progresses. We’re confident that by the end of the year all the skills and technique will catch up.” Outlook: Inflated optimism? Perhaps. If the Trojans mature as quickly as Merrill anticipates, they may nip at the ankles of the favorites. Most likely scenario? Trojans lay foundation for next year.

Players to watch (In no particular order) 1. Alli Nieman, 6-foot-1 senior, middle hitter, Sandpoint 2. Jenny Owen, 5-4 senior, outside hitter, Lake City 3. Andrea Gomez, 5-8 senior, outside hitter, Lewiston 4. Tiwi Bond, 6-0 senior, middle hitter, Sandpoint 5. Angie Shirley, 6-1 junior, middle hitter, Coeur d’Alene 6. Laura Bloom, 6-2 junior, middle hitter, Lewiston 7. Sarah Perry, 5-8 junior, setter, Lake City

3. A-3 INDEPENDENT, WALLACE Miners’ 1994 record: 23-2, State A-3 champs Coach: Dick Schreiber. Years coaching: 6 Top returners: Joy Sperry, 6-foot senior, middle hitter; Dana Streeter, 5-8 sr., mh; Jonni Hill, 5-4, junior outside hitter; Lisa Calabretta, 5-8 jr., oh. Key newcomers: Toya Bailey, 5-3 soph., setter; Natalie Bailey, 5-3 frosh., back row. Coach’s comment: Senior middle hitter Joy Sperry might be the most recruited volleyball player in the state, Schreiber said. Twenty to 30 schools seek the 6-foot all-stater. “Joy is better than last year. She’s going to be just tremendous in the middle with aggressive hits,” Schreiber said. Outlook:The development of Toya Bailey at setter will be key for the Miners. Bailey started working for that role after school last spring. The road to a return trip to state for the Miners may go through Orofino or Clearwater Valley.

4. NORTH STAR In predicted order of finish:

1. Falls Christian Eagles 1994 record: 4-4 league, 14-13 overall, District I champ Coach: Danica Belleque. Years coaching: First Key returners: Sarah Peterson, 5-8 senior, middle blocker/ outside hitter; Audrey Wallace, 5-6 sr., back row/oh; Latisha Taylor, 5-foot junior, setter; Becky Straw, 5-3 jr., br/oh. Top newcomers: Sally Lyons, 5-6, jr., oh; Leisl Runkle, 5-2, jr. Quick sets: Last year’s NSL coach of the year, Marlo Hutchison, has returned to Northwest College in Kirkland, Wash., where she is also playing volleyball. Belleque, a former University of Colorado player, inherits seven returning players off last year’s district title team with her first volleyball coaching job. Coach’s comment: “They are very scrappy. We don’t have a lot of height, so we’re looking at other means of getting the job done. They’re very, very coachable girls.” Outlook: Peterson and Wallace are a reliable and dangerous twosome poised to lead Falls back to state. Belleque hasn’t had time to scout the NSL. She’s mainly concerned with getting her team ready for the season.

Clark Fork Wampus Cats 1994 record: 6-2 league champ, 17-9 Coach: Sandy Ross. Years coaching: 14 Key returners: Hailey Scofield, 5-8 sr., setter; Sasha Storaasli, 5-8 sr., oh; Angie Ponack, 5-9 sr., mh; Donella Pratt, 5-7 sr., mh; Adrianna Malley, 5-4, sr., setter. Top newcomers: Darlene Yanik, 5-4, jr., br; Erin Manderscheid, 5-4, soph., setter. Quick sets: The Cats return eight off last year’s varsity, led by Scofield, who moves from outside hitter to setter, which is her position on an area elite age-division team. “Her transition is pretty natural,” Ross said. “Hailey will still be able to hit the ball quite a bit.” Coach’s comment: “It’s an interesting mix of new faces and returning players. I think we’ll be hearing a lot from my players.” Outlook: Ross said the league seems to change a little bit every year. “That’s what makes it enjoyable,” Ross said. “There is no doubt that Falls Christian is wearing the bull’s-eye, being the previous district champions.” Clark Fork debuts Thursday at Wallace against the defending state A-3 champions. “We consider it an honor that they wish to open with us, too. That’s a match we look forward to.”

3. Kootenai Warriors 1994 record: 4-4, 12-12 Coach: Jeff Walker. Years coaching: 2 Key returners: Jayme Flint, 5-7 sr., oh; Christy Raivio, 5-4 sr., s; Danyel Hunter, 6-0 jr., mb; Lindsey Kraack, 5-7 jr., oh/mb. Top newcomers: Natalie Damiano, 5-5, soph., oh/br; Jayme Bornitz, 5-10 soph., oh/mb. Quick sets: Convenience is one reason Walker doesn’t run two-a-day preseason practices. Instead, the Warriors have one 3-hour session. “I can definitely hold their attention; that’s not their problem.” Coach’s comment: Flint will be a weapon. “She is an excellent bumper. She passes the ball well. “Right now, she’s our strongest hitter, which is a big improvement from last year.” Outlook: Six players return off last year’s district runner-up team. “We’re going to be very competitive,” Walker said. “We will smack the ball at some people. We’re changing some things on defense to get more tipped balls.” The NSL was tight last year, and Walker anticipates more of the same.

4. Lakeside Knights 1994 record: 2-6, 4-15 Coach: Brad Veile. Years coaching: 5 Key returners: Jennifer Niebuhr, 5-7 sr., setter/oh; Ruth Brand, 5-2, sr., setter/oh; Harmony Hammons, 5-10 jr., mb. Top newcomers: Bernie Twoteeth, 5-7 jr., oh; Alecia Hoffman, 5-8 jr., mb. Quick sets: Niebuhr and Brand anchor the Knights, as fourthyear varsity players. “They’re definitely veterans,” Veile said. “They’re kind of the mainstays for the team. They’ve got the experience.” Coach’s comment: Skillwise, Lakeside is ahead of where it was at this time last season, and that’s a sign of coaching stability. “They know what I expect of them. We’ve been changing offenses. All that shows that volleyball knowledge has increased. Looking at basic skills, willingness to try something new, the girls have come a long way.” Outlook: Lakeside may not have enough weapons to challenge for a league championship, but Veile hopes the changes in his team’s offense combined with his top players’ experience will make the Knights competitive.

5. Mullan Tigers 1994 record: 4-4, 6-11 Coach: Shanon Pooler. Years coaching: First Key returners: Kristina Elwood, 5-4 sr., setter; Misti Machuga, 5-10 sr., mb; Katie Elwood, 5-7 soph., oh. Top newcomers: Tiffany Hoven, frosh., 5-4 setter/br; Lori Angle, 5-7 soph., oh; Cecily Pemble, 5-0 jr., br. Quick sets: Mullan graduated just one senior from its program last year. Seven players are returners among the 11 who reported for the first practice. The roster may increase by six once school starts. Coach’s comment: “What I’m stressing as a new coach is a real, solid team philosophy. Everything we do is team-orientated. Early in the season, it’s rubbing off well on the girls. They’ve really taken it to heart.” Outlook: Don’t let Pooler fool you, he may be a first-year volleyball coach, but he’s not new to North Idaho athletics. He will be a fourth-year basketball official. He is well aware of the league’s talent. “Anybody could win this thing,” he said.

NOTE: North Idaho Christian of Hayden Lake has joined the Idaho High School Activities Association as an associate member. NIC hopes to be a full member next year and plans to join the NSL. NIC is not eligible for postseason tournaments.

Players to watch (In no particular order) 1. Jayme Flint, 5-foot-7 senior, outside hitter, Kootenai 2. Sarah Peterson, 5-8 senior, middle blocker/outside hitter, Falls Christian 3. Hailey Scofield, 5-8 senior, setter, Clark Fork 4. Jennifer Niebuhr, 5-7 senior, setter/outside hitter, Lakeside 5. Katie Elwood, 5-7 sophomore, outside hitter, Mullan