‘A Lot of Potential’ for State College Girls’ Volleyball in 2021

Talent returns to the State High girls’ varsity volleyball team. Pictured in front, from left, are Iris Archibald, Molly Thompson, Kate Lally and Michal Ann Kessinger. Row 2: Sophie Wales, Ashlyn Arnold, Claire Jordan, Emi Shukla, Anna Witmer and Sam Shala. Submitted photo

By

G Kerry Webster

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September 2, 2021 – 7:07 pm

Local & Penn State Sports

Every year brings something new to every team, and that’s how State College varsity girls’ volleyball coach Chad Weight is approaching the 2021 season.

Last year, the team was successful to say the least, reaching the PIAA quarterfinals, only to be stymied by Hempfield. But teammates Kacy Sekunda, Vanessa McGhee, Jacqui Gordon, Ariana Angus, Elena Spielvogel, Paige Edwards, Anna LeTendre, Ava Wagner and Sarah Neely have all now moved on due to graduation, leaving a lot of questions for the 11th-year head coach.

“Every year brings a little of the unknown in terms of chemistry, work ethic and buy-in,” said Weight. “We have a solid group that brings a lot of potential. How it’ll all work itself out remains to be seen.”

The success will rest on the shoulders of the 10 returning letter winners tasked to lead the team. Coming back from the 2020 team are Claire Jordan, Emi Shukla, Samantha Shala, Anna Witmer, Michal Ann Kessinger, Iris Archibald, Molly Thompson, Sophie Wales, Kate Lally and Ashlyn Arnold.

Weight said the team is experienced and are athletic, but noted it must limit its errors to have a successful run in 2021.

Weight will be assisted by coaches Jim Gonder, Audrey McDonough and Tara Neidigh.

This story appears in the Sept. 2-8 edition of the Centre County Gazette