After what might be classified as a somewhat disappointing volleyball season, albeit against a more difficult schedule in 2018, the Hopkinsville Lady Tigers are looking to get back on the track towards 8th District and 2nd Region contenton during the 2019 season. To do so, like several other teams around the area, the Lady Tigers will need to find some players to fill some big shoes from last year.
Against a tough schedule in 2018, the Lady Tigers finished 9-25. While the overall record may not be impressive, note Hopkinsville played some of the toughest teams in the state, in some of the biggest events of the season. Included were appearances in the Bluegrass Invitational, Queens of the Court, Jefferson County Invitational, and the Toyota of Western Kentucky Smack Down.
While graduating only three seniors after the season, they were players who were significant contributors to the team. Finding someone to step into the roles left vacant by Karalyn Beymer, Sarah Cavanah, and Kelsey Mata will be a huge key towards a successful season for Hopkinsville in 2019.
Looking to the 2019 season, Hopkinsville will need leadership and big time playmaking from senior Hope Pace. Pace is tall and athletic and can go to the net with a fury when she is on a roll. Chandler Adams is another senior that will need to step up over the course of the season for the Lady Tigers. After a year off last season, senior Marley Hancock, who was the starting pitcher for the HoYpkinsville softball team, returns and should see plenty of court time in 2019.
As for younger players that could be factors during 2019, keep your eyes on the play of Hailey Hallmark, who could emerge as the Lady Tigers best up and coming player.
Jessica Shepherd should feel more at home on the sideline, as she returns for her second season as the head coach of the Lady Tigers. YSE spoke with Shepherd about this edition of the Lady Tigers.
Hopkinsville does not open the season until August 23 when they travel to Apollo for the annual Summer Slam.