Lynden volleyball enters 2015 with no regrets

Coach: Julie Clift

Last year: Went 6-8 overall and 6-6 in the Northwest Conference (eighth). ... Lost first three games of season and three of last four, so despite five wins in a six-game stretch, the Lions failed to qualify for the postseason. ... A 3-2 loss to Squalicum in the final game meant the end of Lynden’s season.

Players to watch: Catyler Alex (L, Sr.), Lauren Roddy (OH, Sr.), Maddie Kramme (OH, Sr.)

Outlook: The Lions came so close to making the playoffs last season, falling to Squalicum on the final day of the regular season, which effectively eliminated Lynden. It’s something the veterans of this group certainly won’t forget but it’s a new season with new hopes. “We’re basically coming at it with a no regrets kind of attitude,” coach Julie Clift said in a phone interview. “The five seniors have been playing volleyball together for a lot of years now. They’re going to leave everything on the court.” The Lions five talented seniors are led by libero Catyler Alex, who missed part of last year with a concussion and the flu. “She’s come back really strong in the offseason. She’s going to be a defensive machine,” Clift said. Joining Alex will be outside hitters Lauren Roddy and Maddie Kramme, both of which will help give Lynden a strong attack. After the senior class, though, the experience level “drops off quite a bit,” Clift said. Still, she’s hopeful for the raw talent coming up through the Lynden ranks.

This story was originally published September 8, 2015 at 11:55 AM with the headline "Lynden volleyball enters 2015 with no regrets."