Team anticipation, excitement and anxiety are a few ways to describe the commencement of the 2005 Yeowomen Volleyball season. Along with the change in coaching staff came the responsibility of adjustment for the team. With three incoming first-years and many returning players, the team looks strong, with a promising future.

Head Coach Carey Cavanaugh takes charge of the Yeowomen after three seasons as an assistant coach at Kent State University. With not even a month of practice, Cavanaugh’s skills, tactics, and coaching have influenced the players greatly.

Sophomore setter Deysi Villarreal had much to say about coach Cavanaugh.

“Carey is an awesome addition to the program both as a coach and a person. She has a great work ethic, which is inspiring. Oberlin did a great job choosing her,” said Villarreal.

Kicking off the season with two wins back to back gave the girls the confidence they lacked. Their first match took place at home during a two-day tournament. Squeaking by with a 3-2 win, the Yeowomen claimed a victory over Pitt-Greensburg. Later that day, Oberlin annihilated Laroche with a 3-0 defeat.

Since day one of play, the Yeowomen’s desire to win has been immense. “We have improved a lot since last year. Everyone is working hard and it shows,” senior Katie Au commented. The Yeowomen have played seven matches since their two triumphs but have yet to reclaim their winning sways.

This past weekend, the team traveled to Baldwin-Wallace to compete against four challenging opposing teams. Unable to snatch a win, the Yeowomen felt the tournament was not a waste.

“It was definitely a challenging tournament, all the teams were competitive and tough. We were also low on numbers, there were only nine of us,” said Au.

Leaving only three substitutes throughout the tournament, Oberlin was not quite up to par.

The Yeowomen travel to Lake Erie on Wednesday, Sept. 14 and will attempt to calm the storm. With determination and sweat, the team hopes to boost their record and gain a win. Oberlin has a current over all record of 2-7.