Tiger volleyball returns to the court flush with experience and determination

Rossiter, now in her eighth year as the head coach, will be on the sidelines again as her Tigers take the floor Tuesday in their season opener, a home contest against Sunnyside. They follow that up with a match at Edison High School on Thursday. Tuesday’s starting time is 6 p.m.

2017 Volleyball Schedule

The Tigers have nine returning players from last season, all seniors this year, beginning with four-year starter Leah Rodriguez, who Rossiter says is a steady presence on the defensive side of the court, as is returning player Kylee Young. “They both do really well,” said the Tiger coach. “They bring a nice energy to the team.”

Throw in another returning player, Aiyana Moore, and Lemoore has the makings of a powerful team.

Lemoore scrimmaged Dinuba Thursday (Aug. 17), and the team came away fairly confident. “We looked really good,” said Rossiter. “I’m really excited. We have a really strong work ethic. They work hard, and they’re all on the same page.”

Lemoore adds a new wrinkle to its schedule this year. The varsity ladies will hop a plane in Fresno for a trip to Las Vegas where they’ve been invited to play in the prestigious Bishop Gorman Invitational, a two-day tournament Sept. 1 -2.

“We’re flying all the girls there,” said Rossiter who is looking forward to the challenge.

“They want to win,” she said. “Our goal is to win the league this year. We certainly have the tools, but our league is always good.”

Lemoore’s WYL opener is Sept. 12 at Hanford West.