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Post by inpaign on Oct 18, 2024 9:50:03 GMT -5
I'm not one to say "I told you so", but I think it's safe to say that anyone in the preseason claiming CMM wouldn't be an impact transfer and a huge addition to this Illini team was wrong. She's played outstanding as she has settled into her role and only seems to be improving with each game. She may not be one of the most recognized names of the B1G liberos, but I truly believe defensively she is one of the best in the conference -- I think people will begin to take note of her as the conference schedule progresses. An absolute STEAL in the transfer portal.
Oh...and Lily Barry is lookin' REAL good too. Took some time (and some really tough games) as her role was being established, but confidence looks good on her. A night and day difference.
Very happy for the both of them!
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Post by Chewblocka on Oct 18, 2024 10:57:35 GMT -5
I'm not one to say "I told you so", but I think it's safe to say that anyone in the preseason claiming CMM wouldn't be an impact transfer and a huge addition to this Illini team was wrong. She's played outstanding as she has settled into her role and only seems to be improving with each game. She may not be one of the most recognized names of the B1G liberos, but I truly believe defensively she is one of the best in the conference -- I think people will begin to take note of her as the conference schedule progresses. An absolute STEAL in the transfer portal. Oh...and Lily Barry is lookin' REAL good too. Took some time (and some really tough games) as her role was being established, but confidence looks good on her. A night and day difference. Very happy for the both of them! Well Said :) |
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Post by Chewblocka on Oct 18, 2024 11:00:32 GMT -5
Embarrassing behavior by that referee. Let these women show some fire out there. Hope he’s never allowed to ref an Illinois game again. I liked the fact Raina was smiling and joking with teammates as she walked away from the official. If that didn’t further aggravate him, a worthwhile goal, I don’t know what would. Further aggravating would be the fact she continued to celebrate after big points. Oh but keep in mind women are supposed to be passive.. lol .. go Raina |
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Post by oldmanvb on Oct 18, 2024 11:19:23 GMT -5
I liked the fact Raina was smiling and joking with teammates as she walked away from the official. If that didn’t further aggravate him, a worthwhile goal, I don’t know what would. Further aggravating would be the fact she continued to celebrate after big points. Oh but keep in mind women are supposed to be passive.. lol .. go Raina As the father of two adult “girls” I can attest to the fact the world is changing. It’s about time and thank goodness. |
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Post by oldmanvb on Oct 18, 2024 11:27:58 GMT -5
I'm not one to say "I told you so", but I think it's safe to say that anyone in the preseason claiming CMM wouldn't be an impact transfer and a huge addition to this Illini team was wrong. She's played outstanding as she has settled into her role and only seems to be improving with each game. She may not be one of the most recognized names of the B1G liberos, but I truly believe defensively she is one of the best in the conference -- I think people will begin to take note of her as the conference schedule progresses. An absolute STEAL in the transfer portal. Oh...and Lily Barry is lookin' REAL good too. Took some time (and some really tough games) as her role was being established, but confidence looks good on her. A night and day difference. Very happy for the both of them! After reading Lily’s instagram post and watching her current play, it appears to me, for what little it is worth, she decided there is value in learning and working at her play. In high school and club her natural athletic ability was good enough. That is not the case for anyone playing at this level. The result of her applying herself and improving her natural ability has been terrific. Her technique has improved, she appears to be reading the play across the net, and she is down and ready. She should feel good about herself as she is turning detractors into fans. With her play and CMM we are actually starting to look like a B1G contender. |
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Post by ilalum92 on Oct 18, 2024 12:49:55 GMT -5
I'm not one to say "I told you so", but I think it's safe to say that anyone in the preseason claiming CMM wouldn't be an impact transfer and a huge addition to this Illini team was wrong. She's played outstanding as she has settled into her role and only seems to be improving with each game. She may not be one of the most recognized names of the B1G liberos, but I truly believe defensively she is one of the best in the conference -- I think people will begin to take note of her as the conference schedule progresses. An absolute STEAL in the transfer portal. Oh...and Lily Barry is lookin' REAL good too. Took some time (and some really tough games) as her role was being established, but confidence looks good on her. A night and day difference. Very happy for the both of them! I was somebody who questioned the transfer (also because they announced she was coming to ILL about 10 seconds after she entered the portal) and she has won me over. Lily has made huge improvements too. Curious as to the other DS we have on the bench and how good they are along with the new ones coming in next year. Does Lily take the L jersey in 2025 |
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Post by maigrey on Oct 18, 2024 12:51:43 GMT -5
I'm not one to say "I told you so", but I think it's safe to say that anyone in the preseason claiming CMM wouldn't be an impact transfer and a huge addition to this Illini team was wrong. She's played outstanding as she has settled into her role and only seems to be improving with each game. She may not be one of the most recognized names of the B1G liberos, but I truly believe defensively she is one of the best in the conference -- I think people will begin to take note of her as the conference schedule progresses. An absolute STEAL in the transfer portal. Oh...and Lily Barry is lookin' REAL good too. Took some time (and some really tough games) as her role was being established, but confidence looks good on her. A night and day difference. Very happy for the both of them! I was somebody who questioned the transfer (also because they announced she was coming to ILL about 10 seconds after she entered the portal) and she has won me over. Lily has made huge improvements too. Curious as to the other DS we have on the bench and how good they are along with the new ones coming in next year. Does Lily take the L jersey in 2025 If she continues to play like she has been, most likely. Tamas likes to give incumbents a shot over freshman if the quality is there. |
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c
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Post by c on Oct 18, 2024 22:49:21 GMT -5
If I'm doing the math right (with a math degree from U of I, no less) Jordyn Poulter should get into the Hall of Fame next year
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Post by Chewblocka on Oct 19, 2024 11:21:03 GMT -5
I was somebody who questioned the transfer (also because they announced she was coming to ILL about 10 seconds after she entered the portal) and she has won me over. Lily has made huge improvements too. Curious as to the other DS we have on the bench and how good they are along with the new ones coming in next year. Does Lily take the L jersey in 2025 If she continues to play like she has been, most likely. Tamas likes to give incumbents a shot over freshman if the quality is there. I’m hopeful that Lily will stay focused and continue the momentum she’s built. She really took advantage of her opportunity, which shows what can happen when a player is given the time/opportunity to settle into a role and perform. But, I have to respectfully disagree with you regarding Tamas and your incumbents comment. While he may have shown some development ability in the past, I no longer believe he’s an effective developer of talent. This season is a prime example—several starting players have struggled, and others haven’t been given a chance to step up or even test their skills. Lily is out there because of an injury not because of his desire to develop her. Thank goodness she has stepped up, that is on her internal fortitude not Tamas. Had Caroline not been injured, sadly, we probably would not have seen Lily the rest of the season. I’ve spoken about this at length over the past few months, so I’ll spare you another full breakdown, but I truly wish Tamas had a more deliberate approach to developing his roster like other programs. Interestingly, I sat at Huff with the father of a top 2026 recruit who would not consider coming to Illinois. When I prodded as to why, he pointed out Tamas’ reputation for player injuries and underutilizing his bench, providing several examples I couldn’t refute. Caroline’s situation was also brought up—he apparently knows someone who knows the family, while she’s medically retired, her farewell post made NO mention of the coaching staff, which, according to the recruit’s father, speaks volumes about how Tamas may have treated her during her tenure and departure. While CMM has made a positive impact, this aspect of player management is troubling after a player has been with us for 4 years. Tamas keeps talking about “culture” but apparently he might be the only one who thinks that culture is good. He noted the players are very close to each other but most are not aligned to the coaches and coaching decisions. Looking at our current situation, if one of our pins were to get injured, TdB might have to step in without any meaningful B1G experience this season. That troubles me, not because I don't have faith this young lady could find her stride at some point, but because he has not committed to her development in a meaningful way. This recruit’s father analyzed player stats across the B1G and mentioned that Tamas ranks the worst in terms of engaging his bench. I plan to verify these claims, so don’t quote me, but they raise legitimate concerns. While I’m not trying to sound overly critical, it’s concerning when top recruits are not impressed with our facilities—something largely out of our control—and now seem disillusioned with Tamas’ player management, a plethora of injured players and lack of making meaningful tournament runs etc. This could impact our ability to attract and retain top talent. I love our program and want to see recruits want to come here and stay here because of the history and success of our program. Call me an old timer but I love the history of Illinois volleyball. I also heard from this father of potential transfers due to his bench management, with one player in particular—whose name I’ll withhold—that could shock us all. It seems there’s growing dissatisfaction, and I’m curious to see how things unfold, especially as Raina’s departure looms. I think Tamas is very short sighted and has been on the Raina train for long enough. Take 16-20 points a game out of our play and it’s going to be rough next year. That is 100% on Tamas and the coaches, not our players. After saying all that: I was very very happy with how we played vs Indiana and y’all know I am 100% behind these players, I struggle with if these coaches don’t make things much harder for us to succeed and if this coaching staff has the ability, skill and decision making to get this program to where I know it can be- TOP of the B1G. |
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Post by oldmanvb on Oct 19, 2024 11:48:08 GMT -5
Reading Chewblocka’s post is distressing and i wish I could argue with it, but I can’t. From outside the program it appears Jen Tamas has done a good job with the middles. Our back row play reflects a real lack of coaching, both individual technique and team concept. Our back row play has improved because a transfer has taken control. You can watch her moving people around during matches for service receive. For those not at matches it can be hard to focus on receive, but when you can watch how much of the court she takes. Maybe there is a coaching position available for her next year.
There are no substitutions even when someone is struggling much less giving someone an opportunity to develop during the stress of play. Practice is important but it is no substitute for game experience. Unfortunately, this is an aspect of Illinois volleyball i don’t see changing in the foreseeable future.
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Post by ilalum92 on Oct 19, 2024 14:19:39 GMT -5
If she continues to play like she has been, most likely. Tamas likes to give incumbents a shot over freshman if the quality is there. I’m hopeful that Lily will stay focused and continue the momentum she’s built. She really took advantage of her opportunity, which shows what can happen when a player is given the time/opportunity to settle into a role and perform. But, I have to respectfully disagree with you regarding Tamas and your incumbents comment. While he may have shown some development ability in the past, I no longer believe he’s an effective developer of talent. This season is a prime example—several starting players have struggled, and others haven’t been given a chance to step up or even test their skills. Lily is out there because of an injury not because of his desire to develop her. Thank goodness she has stepped up, that is on her internal fortitude not Tamas. Had Caroline not been injured, sadly, we probably would not have seen Lily the rest of the season. I’ve spoken about this at length over the past few months, so I’ll spare you another full breakdown, but I truly wish Tamas had a more deliberate approach to developing his roster like other programs. Interestingly, I sat at Huff with the father of a top 2026 recruit who would not consider coming to Illinois. When I prodded as to why, he pointed out Tamas’ reputation for player injuries and underutilizing his bench, providing several examples I couldn’t refute. Caroline’s situation was also brought up—he apparently knows someone who knows the family, while she’s medically retired, her farewell post made NO mention of the coaching staff, which, according to the recruit’s father, speaks volumes about how Tamas may have treated her during her tenure and departure. While CMM has made a positive impact, this aspect of player management is troubling after a player has been with us for 4 years. Tamas keeps talking about “culture” but apparently he might be the only one who thinks that culture is good. He noted the players are very close to each other but most are not aligned to the coaches and coaching decisions. Looking at our current situation, if one of our pins were to get injured, TdB might have to step in without any meaningful B1G experience this season. That troubles me, not because I don't have faith this young lady could find her stride at some point, but because he has not committed to her development in a meaningful way. This recruit’s father analyzed player stats across the B1G and mentioned that Tamas ranks the worst in terms of engaging his bench. I plan to verify these claims, so don’t quote me, but they raise legitimate concerns. While I’m not trying to sound overly critical, it’s concerning when top recruits are not impressed with our facilities—something largely out of our control—and now seem disillusioned with Tamas’ player management, a plethora of injured players and lack of making meaningful tournament runs etc. This could impact our ability to attract and retain top talent. I love our program and want to see recruits want to come here and stay here because of the history and success of our program. Call me an old timer but I love the history of Illinois volleyball. I also heard from this father of potential transfers due to his bench management, with one player in particular—whose name I’ll withhold—that could shock us all. It seems there’s growing dissatisfaction, and I’m curious to see how things unfold, especially as Raina’s departure looms. I think Tamas is very short sighted and has been on the Raina train for long enough. Take 16-20 points a game out of our play and it’s going to be rough next year. That is 100% on Tamas and the coaches, not our players. After saying all that: I was very very happy with how we played vs Indiana and y’all know I am 100% behind these players, I struggle with if these coaches don’t make things much harder for us to succeed and if this coaching staff has the ability, skill and decision making to get this program to where I know it can be- TOP of the B1G. While I agree with the injuries thing, we haven't had the depth the last few years to do any substitutions. The only viable sub is TdB. No one else on that team is in the position to be subbed in, be mad about not playing and want to transfer. Who would they be talking about?? |
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Post by inpaign on Oct 19, 2024 20:23:17 GMT -5
If she continues to play like she has been, most likely. Tamas likes to give incumbents a shot over freshman if the quality is there. I’m hopeful that Lily will stay focused and continue the momentum she’s built. She really took advantage of her opportunity, which shows what can happen when a player is given the time/opportunity to settle into a role and perform. But, I have to respectfully disagree with you regarding Tamas and your incumbents comment. While he may have shown some development ability in the past, I no longer believe he’s an effective developer of talent. This season is a prime example—several starting players have struggled, and others haven’t been given a chance to step up or even test their skills. Lily is out there because of an injury not because of his desire to develop her. Thank goodness she has stepped up, that is on her internal fortitude not Tamas. Had Caroline not been injured, sadly, we probably would not have seen Lily the rest of the season. I’ve spoken about this at length over the past few months, so I’ll spare you another full breakdown, but I truly wish Tamas had a more deliberate approach to developing his roster like other programs. Interestingly, I sat at Huff with the father of a top 2026 recruit who would not consider coming to Illinois. When I prodded as to why, he pointed out Tamas’ reputation for player injuries and underutilizing his bench, providing several examples I couldn’t refute. Caroline’s situation was also brought up—he apparently knows someone who knows the family, while she’s medically retired, her farewell post made NO mention of the coaching staff, which, according to the recruit’s father, speaks volumes about how Tamas may have treated her during her tenure and departure. While CMM has made a positive impact, this aspect of player management is troubling after a player has been with us for 4 years. Tamas keeps talking about “culture” but apparently he might be the only one who thinks that culture is good. He noted the players are very close to each other but most are not aligned to the coaches and coaching decisions. Looking at our current situation, if one of our pins were to get injured, TdB might have to step in without any meaningful B1G experience this season. That troubles me, not because I don't have faith this young lady could find her stride at some point, but because he has not committed to her development in a meaningful way. This recruit’s father analyzed player stats across the B1G and mentioned that Tamas ranks the worst in terms of engaging his bench. I plan to verify these claims, so don’t quote me, but they raise legitimate concerns. While I’m not trying to sound overly critical, it’s concerning when top recruits are not impressed with our facilities—something largely out of our control—and now seem disillusioned with Tamas’ player management, a plethora of injured players and lack of making meaningful tournament runs etc. This could impact our ability to attract and retain top talent. I love our program and want to see recruits want to come here and stay here because of the history and success of our program. Call me an old timer but I love the history of Illinois volleyball. I also heard from this father of potential transfers due to his bench management, with one player in particular—whose name I’ll withhold—that could shock us all. It seems there’s growing dissatisfaction, and I’m curious to see how things unfold, especially as Raina’s departure looms. I think Tamas is very short sighted and has been on the Raina train for long enough. Take 16-20 points a game out of our play and it’s going to be rough next year. That is 100% on Tamas and the coaches, not our players. After saying all that: I was very very happy with how we played vs Indiana and y’all know I am 100% behind these players, I struggle with if these coaches don’t make things much harder for us to succeed and if this coaching staff has the ability, skill and decision making to get this program to where I know it can be- TOP of the B1G. While I think you mention some good points, the statement about the players not being aligned to the coaches couldn't be further from the truth. I can promise you that. |
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Post by Chewblocka on Oct 19, 2024 22:55:37 GMT -5
I’m hopeful that Lily will stay focused and continue the momentum she’s built. She really took advantage of her opportunity, which shows what can happen when a player is given the time/opportunity to settle into a role and perform. But, I have to respectfully disagree with you regarding Tamas and your incumbents comment. While he may have shown some development ability in the past, I no longer believe he’s an effective developer of talent. This season is a prime example—several starting players have struggled, and others haven’t been given a chance to step up or even test their skills. Lily is out there because of an injury not because of his desire to develop her. Thank goodness she has stepped up, that is on her internal fortitude not Tamas. Had Caroline not been injured, sadly, we probably would not have seen Lily the rest of the season. I’ve spoken about this at length over the past few months, so I’ll spare you another full breakdown, but I truly wish Tamas had a more deliberate approach to developing his roster like other programs. Interestingly, I sat at Huff with the father of a top 2026 recruit who would not consider coming to Illinois. When I prodded as to why, he pointed out Tamas’ reputation for player injuries and underutilizing his bench, providing several examples I couldn’t refute. Caroline’s situation was also brought up—he apparently knows someone who knows the family, while she’s medically retired, her farewell post made NO mention of the coaching staff, which, according to the recruit’s father, speaks volumes about how Tamas may have treated her during her tenure and departure. While CMM has made a positive impact, this aspect of player management is troubling after a player has been with us for 4 years. Tamas keeps talking about “culture” but apparently he might be the only one who thinks that culture is good. He noted the players are very close to each other but most are not aligned to the coaches and coaching decisions. Looking at our current situation, if one of our pins were to get injured, TdB might have to step in without any meaningful B1G experience this season. That troubles me, not because I don't have faith this young lady could find her stride at some point, but because he has not committed to her development in a meaningful way. This recruit’s father analyzed player stats across the B1G and mentioned that Tamas ranks the worst in terms of engaging his bench. I plan to verify these claims, so don’t quote me, but they raise legitimate concerns. While I’m not trying to sound overly critical, it’s concerning when top recruits are not impressed with our facilities—something largely out of our control—and now seem disillusioned with Tamas’ player management, a plethora of injured players and lack of making meaningful tournament runs etc. This could impact our ability to attract and retain top talent. I love our program and want to see recruits want to come here and stay here because of the history and success of our program. Call me an old timer but I love the history of Illinois volleyball. I also heard from this father of potential transfers due to his bench management, with one player in particular—whose name I’ll withhold—that could shock us all. It seems there’s growing dissatisfaction, and I’m curious to see how things unfold, especially as Raina’s departure looms. I think Tamas is very short sighted and has been on the Raina train for long enough. Take 16-20 points a game out of our play and it’s going to be rough next year. That is 100% on Tamas and the coaches, not our players. After saying all that: I was very very happy with how we played vs Indiana and y’all know I am 100% behind these players, I struggle with if these coaches don’t make things much harder for us to succeed and if this coaching staff has the ability, skill and decision making to get this program to where I know it can be- TOP of the B1G. While I agree with the injuries thing, we haven't had the depth the last few years to do any substitutions. The only viable sub is TdB. No one else on that team is in the position to be subbed in, be mad about not playing and want to transfer. Who would they be talking about?? As I mentioned, this came as a surprise to me too, and no, it’s not about playing time as you assume—it’s something less obvious, which makes it all the more baffling. But hey, I’ll just leave that hanging. Now, as for depth, if we don’t have the talent or viable subs, whose job is it to actually recruit and develop these players? Last time I checked, we’ve got a roster of 18, so surely there’s more than just TdB waiting in the wings, right? Or are we saying no one else is good enough to be subbed in? If that’s the case, maybe we should be asking why we even bother filling those other spots. I mean, seriously—if 18 players aren’t giving us options, what exactly is the plan here ;) |
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Post by Chewblocka on Oct 19, 2024 23:11:24 GMT -5
I’m hopeful that Lily will stay focused and continue the momentum she’s built. She really took advantage of her opportunity, which shows what can happen when a player is given the time/opportunity to settle into a role and perform. But, I have to respectfully disagree with you regarding Tamas and your incumbents comment. While he may have shown some development ability in the past, I no longer believe he’s an effective developer of talent. This season is a prime example—several starting players have struggled, and others haven’t been given a chance to step up or even test their skills. Lily is out there because of an injury not because of his desire to develop her. Thank goodness she has stepped up, that is on her internal fortitude not Tamas. Had Caroline not been injured, sadly, we probably would not have seen Lily the rest of the season. I’ve spoken about this at length over the past few months, so I’ll spare you another full breakdown, but I truly wish Tamas had a more deliberate approach to developing his roster like other programs. Interestingly, I sat at Huff with the father of a top 2026 recruit who would not consider coming to Illinois. When I prodded as to why, he pointed out Tamas’ reputation for player injuries and underutilizing his bench, providing several examples I couldn’t refute. Caroline’s situation was also brought up—he apparently knows someone who knows the family, while she’s medically retired, her farewell post made NO mention of the coaching staff, which, according to the recruit’s father, speaks volumes about how Tamas may have treated her during her tenure and departure. While CMM has made a positive impact, this aspect of player management is troubling after a player has been with us for 4 years. Tamas keeps talking about “culture” but apparently he might be the only one who thinks that culture is good. He noted the players are very close to each other but most are not aligned to the coaches and coaching decisions. Looking at our current situation, if one of our pins were to get injured, TdB might have to step in without any meaningful B1G experience this season. That troubles me, not because I don't have faith this young lady could find her stride at some point, but because he has not committed to her development in a meaningful way. This recruit’s father analyzed player stats across the B1G and mentioned that Tamas ranks the worst in terms of engaging his bench. I plan to verify these claims, so don’t quote me, but they raise legitimate concerns. While I’m not trying to sound overly critical, it’s concerning when top recruits are not impressed with our facilities—something largely out of our control—and now seem disillusioned with Tamas’ player management, a plethora of injured players and lack of making meaningful tournament runs etc. This could impact our ability to attract and retain top talent. I love our program and want to see recruits want to come here and stay here because of the history and success of our program. Call me an old timer but I love the history of Illinois volleyball. I also heard from this father of potential transfers due to his bench management, with one player in particular—whose name I’ll withhold—that could shock us all. It seems there’s growing dissatisfaction, and I’m curious to see how things unfold, especially as Raina’s departure looms. I think Tamas is very short sighted and has been on the Raina train for long enough. Take 16-20 points a game out of our play and it’s going to be rough next year. That is 100% on Tamas and the coaches, not our players. After saying all that: I was very very happy with how we played vs Indiana and y’all know I am 100% behind these players, I struggle with if these coaches don’t make things much harder for us to succeed and if this coaching staff has the ability, skill and decision making to get this program to where I know it can be- TOP of the B1G. While I think you mention some good points, the statement about the players not being aligned to the coaches couldn't be further from the truth. I can promise you that. Thanks, and I’m not trying to be a wet blanket here, but if the shoe fits today, I guess I’m the one wearing it. Tomorrow’s a new day, and hopefully, I’ll feel more optimistic. I agree with you, @impaign, regarding the players and coaches—hopefully, all of this is just noise in the grand scheme of things. That said, I can’t help but feel some concern when it comes to Caroline, especially in light of the feedback and her farewell post. I hope she knows just how much she’s been appreciated and how important she’s been to all of us throughout her time with Illinois volleyball. Four years is a significant commitment, and it’s truly sad to see her leave. |
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Post by oldmanvb on Oct 19, 2024 23:18:36 GMT -5
While we may have 18 on the roster, 1 has medically retired and another 3, Kayla, Sarah and Gabby, have not dressed. That means we have an effective roster of 14. 9 are in the regular rotation, leaving 5 subs, 4 of whom are DSs or setters unable to play the front row. I understand why Vivian and Bianca have played so little. All of that being said, there is no excuse for Taylor and Kenzie having so little playing time. In fact, the injuries make a compelling case for getting Taylor and Kenzie playing time.
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