Roseville

Roseville High volleyball team set to challenge for MAC Gold supremacy

By Jason Carmel Davis
C & G Sports Writer

» click to enlarge « Photo by Donna Agusti Roseville High senior captain Katie Kyewski (17) has been called a “big hitter and a difference” by coach Tom Pfiefer. Photo by Donna Agusti Roseville High senior captain Katie Kyewski (17) has been called a “big hitter and a difference” by coach Tom Pfiefer.

WARREN — Though it never factored in the race for the Macomb Area Conference Gold Division title in 2011, Roseville High volleyball coach Tom Pfiefer is optimistic this year’s group can challenge for a division title.

“I think this group can do a lot of things,” said Pfiefer, in his fourth year with the Panthers. “But we’re so young, it’s kind of like a roller coaster ride every day.

“The biggest thing I’ve had to work on with these girls is them believing in themselves. They have to get it stuck in their heads that they’re good at this.”

What Pfiefer, who guided Roseville to an 8-18-3 overall record in 2011, sees as the strength of his group is its offense. He said the 2012 version of the Panthers features “some big hitters.” Setting up those scoring opportunities will be key, Pfiefer said.

“If we can get good passes off when we possess the ball, our offense should thrive,” he said.

Defensively, his team needs work, he said, adding that he thinks any defensive deficiencies would be offset by the Panthers’ ability to score.

Pfiefer is looking to a few of his seniors to lead the team, including captain Katie Kyewski, who is one of those big hitters. He added she’s a difference-maker when she’s on the court.

“When she’s not out there, you can tell,” Pfiefer said.

Senior Aja Williams will be counted on to produce for Roseville after having her 2011 campaign cut short due to injury. Pfiefer also lists senior Courtney Meatte as one to watch in 2012.

“A lot of our success is going to depend on our back row,” Pfiefer said. “They need to be on point with their passing and digging or we won’t be able to see those big hitters in action.

“I think we’ll be good. I’ve already heard from other coaches that this is the best Roseville team they’ve seen. They just have to grow up.”

The Panthers had not played a match at press time and takes on Clinton Township Clintondale in the Roseville quad, slated for Sept. 7 at Roseville.

You can reach C & G Sports Writer Jason Carmel Davis at jdavis@candgnews.com or at (586)498-1107. Follow Jason Carmel on Twitter.