Loyalist's volleyball rookies are making a statement

The rookies on Loyalist’s women’s volleyball team are earning their place on the court in a big way.

“Our rookies this year are awesome. They’re working really hard — they really want to earn their spot on the court,” said Amy Hoskin, one of the team’s assistant coaches.

Leighann Bishop, co-captain of the team, said this year’s squad is a lot more of a unit.

“We were kind of a separated unit last year and came together in games and worked pretty well together,” Bishop said. “But this year, we’re more like a family — there’s support, and a great dynamic. The girls are a lot less catty with each other.”

Bishop agreed, adding that Kristen Curtis in particular has already grown into her position more than Bishop had expected.

Bishop said Jenny Richardson, a rookie from Whitby, could emerge as a team leader next season.

Richardson said LeeAnne Jeffs, another veteran on the team, is her main source of support — always helping her improve her abilities.

“Jeffs has made a huge influence on me. She helps me out with pretty much everything,” Richardson said.

She added that all the veteran players help the rookies by explaining their role on the team and giving them tips on how to stay on track.

Katie Glass, a rookie who plays Libero, [a defensive position] said the team doesn’t have a weak link.

“Bish [Leighann Bishop] really encourages me, she knows when to push me, and when to not push me,” Glass said. “She’s just a great leader and she’s helped me become a lot more confident about the game.”