Clayton News Daily

By Doug Gorman

The third year was the charm for the Jonesboro Lady Cardinals volleyball team.

In just the programs third year of existence, the Lady Cardinals flexed their muscles and finished with a 27-8 record.

It was good enough for head coach Dan Maehlman's team to make the state playoffs after winning the Area championship.

In the state tournament, Jonesboro beat Evans, but lost to Shiloh and McIntosh.

If there is a drawback to all the success it comes with replacing some talented athletes.

"The upcoming season will be a rebuilding year for us since we graduated five seniors," said Maehlman.

That doesn't mean the cupboard is totally bare at Jonesboro.

Seniors Kathleen Williams and Lauren Wood bring experience back to the starting lineup.

Monica Gennadopulous didn't start last year, but brings senior leadership back to the Lady Cardinals' lineup.

A talented junior class also comes into the 2003 campaign.

Shade Smith, Shenna Brown, Latreace Johnson and Amanda Traber are all expected to step into the starting lineup.

Despite having to do some rebuilding, Maehlman, who has coached the team since it began playing a varsity schedule three years ago, is confident his team has what it takes to get back to the playoffs.

"Overcoming inexperience will be the key for us early, but once they become accustomed with play with each other, I think we could be alright."