The University of Akron Athletics
Akron Volleyball 2011 Season Preview: Part Three
August 18 | Women's Volleyball
The final edition of the Akron Volleyball season preview features the returning liberos and setters. Juniors Chelsea Harvey and Morgan Kuhn are experienced players that will bring leadership to the floor for the Zips, while sophomores Christina Furda and Jill Paluch will be competing for more playing time and will play a key role in Akron's quest for a conference title this season.
One of the team leaders is junior Chelsea Harvey, who returns as the Zips' starting libero this season. A local product from Stow, Ohio, Harvey earned MAC East Defensive Player of the Week honors three times in 2010. Providing defensive support will be sophomore Christina Furda, who has worked her way into a larger role after playing well in the offseason.
At setter, junior Morgan Kuhn returns as another experienced player for the Zips. Boasting a high volleyball IQ, Kuhn is a potential starter for the second consecutive season. Her serve is also a big weapon, as she led the team with 37 service aces in 2010 and tied the school record with eight in a single match against Chattanooga (Sept. 3).
Also competing for playing time at setter is sophomore Jill Paluch, who saw significant action in 110 sets as a freshman. Paluch played a big role on the floor last season thanks to her tenacity and game IQ and will look to continue to raise the squad's level of play this fall.
The Zips will kick off the season with a Blue & Gold intra-squad scrimmage on Saturday, Aug. 20 at James A. Rhodes Arena. Action begins at 2 p.m. ET and all fans are welcome to attend free of charge.
For more insight on Akron's 2011 outlook, check out the video below of Coach Ron Arenz discussing the upcoming season.
