Arendell Parrott looks to make noise in 2021 volleyball season
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This is not the same Arendell Parrott volleyball team.
Following three consecutive trips to the NCISAA 3A state title game, along with championships in 2018 and 2019, the Patriots slipped to a 2-8 campaign in 2020. APA had just one senior on the roster while working with a new coach in Linda Bryant, and although this season's team is devoid of seniors, there's been a stronger dedication to the game.
"We started with open gyms over the summer," Bryant said. "We knew we had to do something different to compete, adn our main focus was passing. I wasn't too worried about hitting because we have girls who can find the spots when they get it. We struggled last year, but have come a long way this year."
Sophomore Collins Fanning shared Bryant's sentiments.
"I think it's going to be a way better season, and we're a lot more competitive," Fanning said.
Caroline Franklin said the team has stronger camaraderie as well.
"I feel like we click more and really have the drive to win," Franklin said. "Over the summer, we fought really hard — we still have some things to work on, but we'll get better."
Slow starts have been problematic for the Patriots in their two contests this season. APA defeated Fayetteville Academy 23-25, 25-11, 25-23, 25-20 Aug. 18, but fell 25-11, 25-22, 23-25, 25-20 to Fayetteville Christian the next day.
"We have to start the game playing at 100 percent," Bryant said. "In the first set, we played around 75 or 80 percent, trying to make an observation. It's not about that -- we have to be ready to play no matter what."
Still, Bryant said there are plenty of positives to take heading into the remainder of the season.
"I think we have a great shot to make the playoffs and advance even further," Bryant said. "Don't underestimate us."
The Patriots' next game is on the road at John Paul II Wednesday.
.
This is not the same Arendell Parrott volleyball team.
Following three consecutive trips to the NCISAA 3A state title game, along with championships in 2018 and 2019, the Patriots slipped to a 2-8 campaign in 2020. APA had just one senior on the roster while working with a new coach in Linda Bryant, and although this season's team is devoid of seniors, there's been a stronger dedication to the game.
"We started with open gyms over the summer," Bryant said. "We knew we had to do something different to compete, adn our main focus was passing. I wasn't too worried about hitting because we have girls who can find the spots when they get it. We struggled last year, but have come a long way this year."
Sophomore Collins Fanning shared Bryant's sentiments.
"I think it's going to be a way better season, and we're a lot more competitive," Fanning said.
Caroline Franklin said the team has stronger camaraderie as well.
"I feel like we click more and really have the drive to win," Franklin said. "Over the summer, we fought really hard — we still have some things to work on, but we'll get better."
Slow starts have been problematic for the Patriots in their two contests this season. APA defeated Fayetteville Academy 23-25, 25-11, 25-23, 25-20 Aug. 18, but fell 25-11, 25-22, 23-25, 25-20 to Fayetteville Christian the next day.
"We have to start the game playing at 100 percent," Bryant said. "In the first set, we played around 75 or 80 percent, trying to make an observation. It's not about that -- we have to be ready to play no matter what."
Still, Bryant said there are plenty of positives to take heading into the remainder of the season.
"I think we have a great shot to make the playoffs and advance even further," Bryant said. "Don't underestimate us."
The Patriots' next game is on the road at John Paul II Wednesday.
