Volleyball

Varsity Preview

Players to watch

Samantha Brostrom:

Centennial, hitter, junior

Brostrom, a first-team All-Metro player, controlled the net while leading the Eagles to the Class 3A state championship as a sophomore. Her leadership will be instrumental if Centennial is to repeat.

Liz Brown: Centennial, hitter, junior

The other half of Centennial's twin towers with Brostrom, Brown was a major reason the Eagles lost only three games last year. Her soft hands and defensive skills are critical to Centennial's success.

Katy Buck: Mount de Sales, hitter, senior

Buck's blocking and kills led the Sailors to the Interscholastic Athletic Association of Maryland A Conference title last year as underdogs. Her leadership skills will be key for Mount de Salesto repeat. She might be the best player in the area.

Christi Laite: Severna Park, hitter, senior

Laite's presence at the net helped the Falcons advance to the Class 4A East title game last season, and her kills and blocks will be needed again if the team is to get past Broadneck. Her tall frame (6 feet 2) and vertical leap make her a tough player to defend.

Kat Lincalis: Towson, setter, senior

Lincalis was the quarterback on the floor last season, and her passing was a major reason the Generals advanced to the Class 3A championship. She leads a senior-dominated team that could make another title run.

Julie Posten: Reservoir, hitter, senior

A third-year starter, Posten will look to lead Reservoir back to prominence after a subpar season. Posten is strong on offense and defense, and her passing and leadership will be important for the Gators.

Kourtney Salvarola: Broadneck, hitter, senior

Having Salvarola, a second-team All-Metro player last season, on the team is like having a coach on the court. If the Bruins are to win a third straight Class 4A title, Salvarola will have to have another great season.

Casey Schmidt: Glenelg, hitter, senior

One of the best players in Howard County, Schmidt is known for her defense and jump serve. Her ability to elevate her game should help the Gladiators make a successful adjustment from Class 1A to Class 2A.

Hannah Schmidt : Mount de Sales, hitter, junior

Schmidt emerged late in the season last year to help the Sailors win the IAAM A Conference title. She will be expected to replace Kasey Mercier, a second-team All-Metro player last year, as a force at the net.