The Emmaus High School girls volleyball team fell one match win shy of a District 11 championship last season, falling to rival Parkland. The Green Hornets will look to use leadership to get over the hump this season.

“We have a really strong senior class returning, with defensive specialists Mia Pickering, Summer Lorincz and Jenna McGinnis,” said head coach Brianne Giangiobbe. “Offensive hitters Lily Hulbert and Ava Holden, and returning setter Kassidy Hallman all have played in important matches. We have a lot of experience with this senior class and have all aspects of the game covered.”

Along with a couple of new faces on the court that will look to contribute, there is also a new coach on the JV level.

“Jessica Reynolds will be taking over the JV program this upcoming season,” Giangiobbe said. “She brings a lot of experience in her coaching background and the girls are looking forward to working with her.

“Juniors Abby Schweitzer and Hannah Horvath are returning for their third season on varsity and are going to be key contributors in our defense and offense. Junior Chayce Perna is an addition to the varsity roster this upcoming season and her work ethic is hard to match. She runs an effective offense and is learning to connect with her hitters.”

Giangiobbe knows the strengths and weaknesses of her team for this upcoming year.

“We are a very defensive team this season, the scrap and reaction time on our side of the court is going to be tough for our opponents,” said Giangiobbe. “Our team has a different connection this year, the energy in the gym is different and all the girls are sold into the culture of being a team player.

“We lost some height last season and have a few new hitting options this season, we are working to improve our setter connections and running an effective offense.”

With a shortened season last year, Emmaus is looking forward to competing in more matches this year, with more of a chance to win matches and win championships.

“We have so many opportunities to play and compete this season, I know success will come with the drive and commitment of each girl in the Emmaus volleyball program this year,” Giangiobbe said. “I cannot explain the energy these girls bring to the gym every practice, but it is inspiring as a coach and really shows the evolution of the culture in the past few years.

“I am excited to watch the younger players learn from the upperclassmen and get the full experience. I am excited to have a season full of matches and tournaments compared to last year.”

Emmaus begins its season on Saturday, Sept. 4, at the First Kill Tournament.