Blue and Gold takes on first day of practice
The Texas A&M University – Kingsville (TAMUK) indoor and beach volleyball teams have recently begun fall training in preparation towards the spring season.
With recent challenges brought upon by COVID-19, athletes and coaches have been thankful to continue with conditioning despite any rules or restrictions.
Tanya Allen, head beach/indoor volleyball coach, feels excited knowing both teams are back on the court.
“We have some really big expectations for a lot of new kids on our roster so it is nice to be able to put them to work and teach them several things,” Allen told Javelina Athletics. “Mentally our girls were ready to return to the court, eager to get working. Mentally we have had great practices but physically speaking, it has been a while since they have had this kind of training. I hope our teams will be ready, especially having a lot of new faces within our indoor program.”
Allen talked about her beach program as well.
“Our beach squad has plenty of familiar faces that allow things to run a bit more fluidly. But we have plenty of time to ease things and allow our players to know what is expected of them,” she said.
With the excitement of fall sports making their return to Javelina nation, many supporters and students are anxious to catch some live action.
TAMUK senior, Karina Deleon, said that sports returning is a positive thing to look forward to.
“Attending athletic events is always fun and allows you to create unforgettable experiences,” Deleon said. “Of course, safety regulations can be followed while still enjoying games, but I know many Javelina fans, myself included, are looking forward to the energetic atmosphere that comes with supporting the blue and gold.”
Both volleyball teams have continued to create team goals for themselves this season.
Nicole Murff, returning libero for the Javelinas, said she is excited to return to practice with her fellow teammates.
“It was exciting to get back to practicing with the team, even if we were split up in groups. We have many new faces on the team so we are working on building up team chemistry,” Murff said. “We are having our hitters connect with our new setters. Lastly our goal is to always win and to get better as we’re moving along in the season.”