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The Avon Pirates volleyball team heads into the new season with experience, depth, and a strong work ethic. Head coach Lindsey Fathke, now in her fourth year at Avon after eight years with Bon Homme, and longtime assistant Connie Gretschmann, in her 20th year, return to guide the Pirates. One of the team’s greatest strengths is its willingness to work hard and put the team first. “All the girls are willing to work and play whatever position they need to in order for the team to be successful,” Fathke said. “They all play for the name on the front of their jerseys.” Key returners include Brielle Voigt at setter, Rilyn Thury on the outside, and Jordyn Voigt at libero, who will anchor the Pirates’ lineup. Seniors Abby Gretschmann, Kate Swier, and Lexi Vanderlei bring leadership, while a deep junior and sophomore class adds balance. Juniors include Rilyn Thury, Jordyn Voigt, Breanna Hento, and Anna Lupi. Sophomore players are Bailey Wynia, Brielle Voigt, Abby Odens, Raegan Brandt, and Addy Lavelle. “It’s early to pinpoint new promising players, but we’ve seen a lot of positive things from a lot of girls,” said Coach Fathke. The Pirates have focused heavily on passing and defense during preseason practices, knowing strong first touches are the key to running a consistent offense. With a summer that included open gyms, weightlifting sessions, and a two-day camp with Amy Tyler, Avon enters the season prepared to build off its hard work. As always, rivalry matchups against Wagner, Bon Homme, Alcester-Hudson, and Gayville-Volin are on the list, but Fathke said the team views every opponent as a challenge. “We approach every game with the same mentality—we have to go out and play our game and do the little things,” she said. “Motivating the team during the tough stretches in a match or season relies heavily on us as coaches,” Fathke said. “If they know we are continually working to help them get over