After watching her team go 12-16 overall and finish eighth in the Western Indiana Conference last season, South Putnam volleyball coach Ellen Houser enters this year looking to replace quite a bit of experience and talent lost due to graduation. 

"My initial thoughts regarding last season are that it will be tough to fill our graduating seniors' roles on and off the court," Houser told The Putnam County Post.

Those seniors were Kelsey Custis, Taylor Hartley, Laney Nolley and Emmy Jeter. 

"We lost setters, a valuable middle blocker, and key back row defense. Each of these athletes were fantastic leaders, and that will be the toughest role to replace," Houser said. 

With that said, the Eagles do bring back some talented seniors this year in Peyton Freeman, Joscelyn Pilcher and Olivia Woolums. 

"I am excited to see each of these athletes step up and take an active role in our team's successes. Additionally, Chlara Pistelli and Danae Cline are returning as setter and libero," she said.

South Putnam will open the season Aug. 23 against West Vigo and Houser is excited to see what her team can do on the court, mentioning she has an "amazing group of student athletes that excel in all of their extra-curriculars."

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