Program gets new direction
The Becky Sani era is off to a great start this fall, as the first-year varsity coach looks to continue a rich volleyball tradition.
Sani, a former JV coach and a 1991 El Molino graduate, is all in on re-building the program to a championship level, and is excited about the prospects for this year and beyond.
“I bleed El Molino red and I am committed to re-starting the program,” Sani said, citing the importance of having a freshman and JV team to develop young talent. “We’re going to be one of those scrappy teams that plays hard every night and keeps the ball off the ground.”
Although the Lions have been competitive over the last few seasons, the expectations are high for taking the next step up the ladder.
“Our goals are to finish in the top three in league and land a spot in the NCS playoffs,” Sani noted. “Our defense is a strength and we’re working hard on our hitting and running offensive plays. I think we’re really starting to gel as a team.”
The Lions have a strong nucleus of five returning varsity players, led by senior libero Torrie Boles and senior outside hitter Gabby Bushgen.
“Torie is amazing on defense and is all over the court,” Sani noted. “Gabby is very consistent and has very few unforced errors.”
Other seniors are; middle blocker Jamie Noar, outside hitters Emily Bower, and right side hitter Tiger Berna.
“Tiger has a great arm swing and teams never know where her hits are going,” Sani said.
Also bolstering the roster are junior right side hitter Alicia Montano, and junior outside hitters Sara Flores, and Ayliah White. The lone sophomore is defensive specialist Neva Titus.
The Lions will benefit with the addition of two outstanding freshmen; middle hitter Sasha Senal and setter Kassidy Sani.
“It’s nice to have a couple of freshmen on the team that will be here for a few years,” Becky Sani said. “Kassidy has a wicked serve and Sasha has a very powerful hit.”
The Lions (3-1) have already notched three wins in their first four matches, having beaten Roseland University Prep, Rincon Valley Christian, and Middletown. El Mo’s lone loss came against a strong Kelseyville squad.
At press time the Lions were preparing to open the league campaign on Sept. 6 against Healdsburg and will be visting Piner this Thursday, Sept. 8 (4/5/6:30 p.m.). El Mo will host Elsie Allen on Tuesday, Sept. 13 (5/6:30 p.m.)