MLC Season Preview

Knights Prepare for UMAC Battle

                 Entering  the 2005 season, the Knights are trying to find the missing pieces to the puzzle that is the Knights starting lineup.  With only three returning starters, there will be some new faces on the court this year.  The Knights, however, will have experience on its side.  Eight of the 12 players on the roster are upperclassmen.   

              Despite the questions concerning the status of the roster, the one constant for the Knights is head coach Drew Buck.  Buck brings a wealth of experience and success to the court.  As he enters his 23rd year of coaching volleyball, he ranks 22nd in career victories (447) in the NCAA Division III.  Buck also ranks 40th among active coaches with a .626 winning percentage.

              Leading the way for the Knights on the court, is first team All-Conference outside hitter Rachel Meyer.  Meyer, a junior, spiked her way into school record books last year, setting new school marks with 459 kills and 60 blocks.  Also returning for the Knights are seniors Emily Buck (All-Conference Honorable Mention) and Becky Hahn.   

              The Knights tied for third in the UMAC regular season standings last fall, posting a 17-15 overall showing and 9-5 league mark.  If the Knights attempt to improve upon last season, they will face stiff competition in the process.  The Bethany Lutheran College Vikings again look tough this year and rank # 1 in the Pre-Season Coaches’ Poll.  Coach Buck, however, believes the Knights just need to focus on themselves. 

               “We need to keep our eyes right here,” Buck said.  “We can only control what we do on the court and if we focus on that, I think we’ll be pleased with the results.”