The Lancers women's volleyball team kicks off their season in Kingston this Saturday, and are facing high expectations as head coach Lucas Hodgson has his eyes set on a final four run.
 
"This is our biggest incoming class since I have been here, and I think it will be one of our best as well," said Hodgson.
 
While the roster has seen some changes from last year, losing OUA all-star Carleigh Bailey, as well as key players Emily McCloskey and Sabrina Safranyos, the Lancers welcome back to the line-up OUA west division rookie of the year Paige Phills, second team all-star Lexi Pollard and all-rookie team member Brooke Davis.
 
Over the summer Coach Hodgson made some strong additions to the line-up to compliment his three all-stars.
 
The blue and gold have two new local recruits, first year Ally Winik and fifth year Western transfer Alana Gyemi. Along with new addition Amie Slawson from Simon Fraser, Hodgson will be looking to his recruits to make an impact right away.
 
After finishing in fifth last season with a 7-12 record, Hodgson plans to make the team more competitive this year.
 
"We have a great mix of young and senior athletes ready to step up and take the program to the next level," said Hodgson. "I am really excited to see how our athletes handle being a team that can compete with the top teams in the province and the country."
 
Hodgson claims the team's biggest challenge will be getting the younger athletes to maintain a high level of play throughout the year, as he states "It is a long season and we need to stay focused and driven towards our goal each week."
 
Hodgson shared his excitement for the season adding, "The OUA West is very strong this year and there are going to be some great battles, we are looking forward to getting the season going."
 
The Lancers head down to Kingston Sat. Oct. 27, as they face off against the Queen's Gaels in their first game of the season at 1:00pm. The team will host the Brock Badgers a week later for their home opener at 12:00pm on Saturday, November 3rd. Season tickets for Lancer Volleyball can be purchased at www.goLancers.ca/tickets.