Volleyball season begins this week

Volleyball season begins this week for the Douglas Lady Bulldogs who have a rigorous start to the season.

The Lady Bulldogs began their season last night (Tuesday) with a road game at Nogales. Tonight they host Willcox in their home opener. On Thursday they head to Empire for a match before going back to Tucson Friday and Saturday for the Flowing Wells Invitational.

Douglas scrimmaged Tombstone last Thursday night in the DHS gym.

After the scrimmage Douglas’ coach Carlos Chavez described what he saw as a work in progress.

”We’re young, we’re going to have our ups and downs,” he said. “But the girls come out and work hard every day in the gym. They really want to get better.”

Chavez said his players are coming in with a good attitude and understand they have to work hard if they hope to get better.

“We may see some growing pains this year but in the long run it’s going to be beneficial to our program,” he said.

Chavez said Karina Avechuco, Jenise Olivarria and Kianna Ross all return and have looked good in practice.

Senior Aleen Nunez returns after sitting out last year. Jennifer Montoya has been brought up to the varsity where she is expected to make an impact.

Junior Aileen Alegria is expected to help out in the back row.

Chavez brought up four sophomores who made the commitment and did the work needed over the summer to earn a spot on the varsity squad. They are, Valeria Verdugo, Syndi Verdugo, Ruby Samaniego and Yadira Cuevas.

“We’re looking them as back row players and maybe Verdugo will see some action in the front row,” he said. “We look at all these girls and each one had something special to contribute to the program. That’s why they’re at the varsity level.”

Chavez is hoping these girls can jell together.

“Our leadership comes from the seniors on the squad,” he said. “The seniors we have on the team have taken these sophomores under their wing. They’re helping me out tremendously. We’re hoping things fall into place for us.”