Eagles led by juniors

Although Estancia High lost four players for the upcoming girls

volleyball season, more importantly, it gained needed experience.

Juniors Stacie Watson, a setter, and Jaye Hellmich, a middle

blocker, have both been varsity players since they were freshman, and

plan to play a key part in the adjustment process.

“They both have two years under their belt,” said Coach Jim

Huffman. “They’re older, they’re stronger and they’re smarter. They

have helped in bringing the girls up and in mentoring. They really

help set a good pace.”

Watson was named second-team All-Golden West League her freshman

and sophomore year, while Hellmich received the honor last season.

Both girls continued playing volleyball throughout the summer with

Golden West Junior Club, and Huffman said, “These are the two most

significant returners. They’re going to come back and be

head-turners.”

At 6-feet, Hellmich, a player Huffman said could possibly be the

most dominant player in the league, has been seen obliterating the

ball during practices.

Two returners, both of whom are outside hitters, sophomore Sara

Braunsdorf and junior Taylor Brown returned to the court after

spending the summer with personal coaches and in volleyball camps in

hopes of aiding their team.

New to the lineup are two freshman, Madeline Stack and Annie

Tomesak. Both stand tall at 5-9. Tomasek, who will start, will give

the Eagles a lift they needed.

“We desperately needed someone that can block,” said Huffman. “She

fit that bill; She puts up a nice block.”

Estancia will also reveal its best-kept secret in the fall.

Sophomore Olivia Schow who is a middle blocker, had never touched a

volleyball until last May, but has significantly improved her game.

Schow, who spent most of her time in club gymnastics, came to the

schools’ P.E. volleyball class during the last few weeks of school,

and after it captured her attention, she attended summer camps in

preparation for the volleyball season. The 5-11 athlete will make her

debut this season as a starter.

“I think it’s going to be a good season,” said Huffman.