September 7, 2007

MERRITT ISLAND — When Laurie Haines took over the Merritt Island Christian School volleyball program three years ago, she knew duplicating Clint Chupka’s feats would be a tall order. Chupka coached the Cougars to six playoff appearances in seven seasons.

But, Haines has made her own mark at the small private school, leading MICS to three consecutive playoff appearances, including a Final Four berth in her first season in 2004. Not surprisingly, the team’s goal this year is yet another playoff berth, and that’s despite the fact that the Cougars lost three starters from last year’s team.

MICS may have no trouble defending its Class 1A, District 8 championship after winning the annual Snake Bite Classic preseason tournament recently in Belleview.

MICS stunned two-time defending Class 4A playoff qualifier Belleview, 25-15, 25-21, 25-21, in the championship match. The teams played in near 100-degree heat because the gym had no air conditioning. Earlier in the day, MICS beat Class 1A Meadowbrook High from Clermont, 25-18, 25-17, 25-12.

“This team definitely has the potential to advance in regional play this season,” said Haines, who led the team to a 22-7 record last season. “Based on our preseason, I honestly think this team may be stronger than my 2006 team, overall.”

Haines is counting on returning sophomore setter/outside hitter Stephanie Quinn to lead the team this year.

Also expected to bolster this year’s offense are junior middle blocker Erica Robes, a newcomer; junior outside hitter/setter Kacie Paulk, a returnee, and junior outside hitter Aimee Dewitt, another returnee. Defensively, junior specialist Haleigh Campbell returns to anchor the squad.

Rounding out the roster are returnees Bailey Scott, sophomore middle blocker; Sarah Becker, senior defensive specialist; and newcomers Jenny Stanton and Rebecca Wilson, senior defensive specialists; Kaitlyn Bryant, sophomore right-side hitter; Katie Higginbotham, sophomore defensive specialist; Taylor Helms, junior defensive specialist; Colleen Crawford, senior right-side hitter; Katie Dewitt, junior middle blocker; and Amber Hubert, junior outside hitter.

“The younger girls have really stepped it up and are filling those roles quite well,” Haines said. “All but two players on the varsity roster participated in club volleyball over the winter and have returned stronger and more confident. And, the rest of my roster includes strong players also ready to make an impact.”