Albion spikers prep to defend N-O title

Photo by Mike Wertman – Getting set to help lead the Albion volleyball squad into the defense of its Niagara-Orleans League titles is the senior quintet of Kiara Smith, Emilie Barleben, Chanyce Powell, Kaitlyn Van Skiver and Cameron Tucker.

Having lost five of six starters to graduation Albion faces a bit of a rebuilding job as the three-time defending champion Purple Eagles prepare to defend their Niagara-Orleans League volleyball title.
Senior Chanyce Powell, a two-time first team N-O All-League honoree, is Albion’s lone returning starter. Powell had a team leading goal of 266 spiking kills last season and also had 74 service aces, 69 blocks and 117 digs.
The Purple Eagles also return some experience in seniors Kiara Smith, Emilie Barleben, Kaitlyn Van Skiver and Cameron Tucker along with junior Caitlynn Snook and sophomore Sierra Newton.
“It’s a different look this season,” said Coach Ann Capacci. “It’s definitely a rebuilding season but we’ll work hard every day and look to improve every match. The experience they gained last year will certainly help. So now it’s their turn.”
The Purple Eagles losses to graduation include first team N-O All-League honorees Kelsee Soule and Meghan Hurley along with honorable mention selections Ashlee Bocach and Aleah Foos.
Albion, which posted a 12-0 record last fall to claim the N-O crown, will begin their title defense at home on September 7 against Roy-Hart.
Schedule
August: 31 – at Attica, 6:15 p.m.
September: 2 – at Alexander, 6:15 p.m.; 7 – Roy-Hart, 6:15 p.m.; 8 – at Byron-Bergen, 6:15 p.m.; 9 – Albion Tournament, 8 a.m.; 13 – Wilson, 6:15 p.m.; 15 – Newfane, 6:15 p.m.; 17 – at Churchville-Chili Tournament, 8 a.m.; 19 – at Medina,6:15 p.m.; 22 – Akron, 6:15 p.m.; 26 – Cheektowaga, 6:15 p.m.; 29 – at Roy-Hart, 6:15 p.m..
October: 3 – Batavia, 6:15 p.m.; 5 – at Wilson, 6:15 p.m.; 7 – at Newfane, 6:15 p.m.; 14 – Medina, 6:15 p.m.; 18 – at Akron, 6:15 p.m.; 20 – at Notre Dame, 6:15 p.m.