BSHS Fall Sports Preview: Lady Indians Volleyball

by Jamie Harris

The Berkeley Springs Lady Indians volleyball team, led by head coach Andrew O’Dell, is gearing up for an exciting season. With a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers, the team is ready to face tough competition and showcase their skills on the court.

The 2024 BSHS Volleyball Team: First row, left to right: Nina Rotella, Isabella Albanese, Lily Barkley, Hailey Adkins, Gracie Galligher, Brooklynn Yost, Kyarria Courtney, Cambria An- drews, Alyssa Patton, Elliana Webster and Abigail Culp. Second row: Coach Andrew O’Dell, Bailee Diehl, Abigail Close, Isabelle Bingaman, Makayla Bowers, Danica O’Dell, Kaitlin Hageny, Macey Fincham, Maddie Close, Ava Slovinsky, Ryliegh Poist, Coach Becky Barkley and Coach Ryan Fincham.
photo by Amanda Miller

Top returners

Danica O’ Dell: A player and one of the team’s seniors, O’Dell brings leadership and a strong presence on the court.

Bailee Diehl: A dynamic returner known for her versatility and competitive spirit.

Ryliegh Poist: Another valuable asset to the team, Poist’s consistency and hustle will be crucial to the Lady Indians’ success.

Key losses

Stephanie Briscoe: Her absence will be felt both on and off the court, as she was a cornerstone of last year’s team.

Ocean Clatterbuck: A key player whose contributions

were significant in past seasons.

Newcomers

Abigail Close: Stepping up to varsity, Close is expected to make an immediate impact with her talent and determination.

Isabella Albanese, Abigail Culp and Kyarria Courtney: JV team, these players bring fresh energy and potential, adding depth to the squad.

Season outlook

This year’s Lady Indians volleyball team is a young but determined group, led by the only two seniors, Danica O’Dell and Kaitlin Hageny. The focus on teamwork has been emphasized throughout the preseason, with the girls starting their training as early as June 1. This early start has put them well ahead of where they were last year at this time, giving them a strong foundation as they enter the season.

Coach O’Dell has high hopes for the team, acknowledging the stiff competition they will face but expressing confidence in the girls’ ability to rise to the challenge. “This is a great group of girls with a lot of hustle and talent among them,” O’Dell re- marked. “Once they figure out just how good they can be, it’ s going to be amazing to watch.”

The Lady Indians are set to bring energy, determination, and skill to every match.

Berkeley Springs will open their season on August 24 at Keyser starting at 9 a.m.