Cottey spikers are a hit in season debut

Wednesday, September 3, 2003

Cottey College dominated Ozark Christian College at Hinkhouse Center Gymnasium in its season-opening volleyball match on Tuesday. The Comets were never threatened, overpowering the Ambassadors in a three-game sweep, 30-19, 30-12 and 30-12. Matches are decided on a best-of-five basis. In game one, the Comets came roaring out of the gate to take a comfortable 13-3 lead. Midway through the contest, Ozark closed the gap to 17-13, but a 10-2 Comet run quieted any designs on a comeback by the Ambassadors. The Comets ran to a 21-7 lead in game two and cruised to victory, while game three was more of the same. A 20-12 advantage, followed by a 10-0 run, which was punctuated by a powerful spike from middle hitter Carey Chenoweth for the game and match winner. Upgraded athleticism, quickness and floor leadership appear to be keys for the much-improved Comets. Cottey coach Marla Kannady credited off-season recruiting and upper class leadership, in particular. "We have more players (13) than we've ever had," said Kannady, "and that creates more competition in practice, which makes everybody better. "And my sophomores have come back and really stepped up. They each have different leadership responsibilities that they have taken on with a lot of confidence and pride." The returning sophomores are Chenoweth, middle/outside hitter Emily Arzate and libero Liz Hutchinson. Newcomers Teresa Parks, a middle hitter, and Jessica Puskar, an outside hitter, displayed power and finesse on the front row. That freshmen duo, along with Chenoweth and Arzate controlled the net. Molly Haines, another freshman, brings a formidable weapon in an outstanding jump serve, as she paced the Comets in service points and aces. Kannady conceded that this is the best group she's had in her four-year tenure. "I believe there is a promising future for us," she said.

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