Four out of five isn’t bad at all, but three in a row is even better and that’s the task that the Kaua’i girls’ volleyball team faces in its quest for a 3-peat this season. “I think we have the
Four out of five isn’t bad at all, but three in a row is even better and that’s the task that the Kaua’i girls’ volleyball team faces in its quest for a 3-peat this season.
“I think we have the talent and experience this year. Maybe we’re favored, but it’s anyone’s (title) who wants to take it,” Red Raider head coach Rich Roberts said.
Two KIF players of the year are on Kaua’i’s squad this season, which is a rare occurrence.
Outside hitters Kehau Judd and Tina Moger, both seniors, have led the Red Raiders to the past two KIF championships.
But the play of role players might’ve put them over the hump in the past five seasons.
Roberts noted that he’s still trying to find a starting setter, but the squad should get strong play from returnees Jenna Akasaki, Ho’onani Dennis, Rosalyn Rapozo, Auika Muragin, and Trisha Niau. Newcomers Megan Vento, Maliana Hamada, Lezlie Tao, Nalani Haviland, Kara and Kristen Cummings, and Carie Inouye should provide the Red Raiders with depth and stamina throughout the best-of-five matches.
“I think the best of five format’s great. We’ve got a deep bench that will help us out in the end,” Roberts said.
Against Kapa’a Roberts called it the “Poe Show,” speaking of the dominating performance Kapa’a heavy hitter Poe Gantt displayed against the Menehune on Wednesday night in the KIF volleyball opener.
“It was an interesting match. Waimea had an off night. I don’t think that (Wednesday’s match) will forecast the season,” Roberts said. With Kapa’a up on the board with a win, the Red Raiders want to start of their 2005-06 campaign with a victory as well.
“It’s going to be good volleyball. Kapa’a’s coming off a good win and I’m sure they want it hard this year,” Roberts said.
