Hampton-Dumont-CAL tough season shows teams potential next season

Hampton-Dumont-CAL volleyball finished the year 3-25.

In a season that was hopeful for improvement, it ended up being a frustrating year for the Bulldogs.

“I truly feel that even though we may not have won many matches, we as a team never gave up,” coach Sara Miller said.

The team leaned on three seniors this year.

Addyson Showalter, Kortney Dunt and Aja Sheppard.

Sheppard and Dunt were well timed partners on the attack.

Sheppard recorded 271 assists and Dunt had 102 kills.

Showalter led digs on the team with 229.

All three seniors were stellar on serving, combining for 97 aces.

“They were all leaders both on and off the court,” Miller said.

The Bulldogs also saw stellar play from three freshmen.

Aubryee Showalter led the team in kills with 103 and had 27 aces.

Charlee Morton was second in blocks with 13.

Abigal Drier had 115 digs and 21 aces.

“These three freshmen stepped it up and only being freshmen it is super exciting for their future years,” Miller said. “They are growing into leaders already. Their skills and confidence grew each day. They know how important it is to continue to work on skills in the off season.”

HD-CAL will have Gina Schmit, Emma Showalter and Katie Sosa returning as seniors next season.

Showalter lead the team in blocks with 19 this season.

Miller said Zoe Erdman and Aspen Harlan will be sophomore who will contribute greatly next season.

It’s an exciting prospect to return this much experience for next season.

“I hope to get our three big focuses of communication, effort and attitude worked out right away when our season starts,” she said.

Being prepared to compete throughout a match, executing attack and improving serve and receive are some points of improvement for next year.

“This season is not what we had hoped for.” Miller said. “It is never easy leaving a gym with a loss but I hope that our players have gained experience, motivation and the determination to work hard during the off-season.”