Montana State Bobcats

Montana State head volleyball coach Sara Schaub couldn’t be any happier with the energy level in Shroyer Gym after two days of fall drills.

“It’s early and we’re still working on integrating the five newcomers, but every chance we have had to compete so far has been met with great energy and skill level,” Schaub said.

In all, 14 players dot the Bobcat roster led by seniors Meghan Albiston and Jodeen Rademacher. MSU returns three starters to its line-up.

Montana State will look to improve upon its 3-23 mark from last season. The Bobcats went 2-6 in five set matches, and have set its sights on turning that record around this fall.

“A lot of what we want to accomplish in the first week is to get everyone on the same page,” Schaub said. “We’re doing a lot of explaining to the newcomers and reiterating to the upperclassmen, and they’re doing a great job soaking it all in.”

Albiston, a libero from Idaho Falls, Idaho, returns as one of the top defensive players in the Big Sky Conference after averaging 4.31 digs per set last year. Rademacher, an outside hitter from Adams, Neb., returns as MSU’s kill leader, averaging 1.94 per set.

“Meghan and Jodeen are doing a fantastic job with their leadership,” Schaub said. “And, we are getting contributions from numerous upperclassmen, who have really stepped up their intensity.”

Montana State will open its season with an Alumni match on Aug. 21.