Junior Sandy Kruger is the University of San Francisco's setter and captain along with sophomore Laura Tinetti. Kruger is returning to USF for her senior year and has been labeled "team mom" for the upcoming volleyball season. "She has a really genuine way of standing, but as a leader on the court. She takes charge during games and practice," said freshman opposite hitter Katie Christensen. Christensen said that she and the other six freshmen knew volleyball at the collegiate level would be difficult to adapt to considering the road trips, tougher competition and especially a new team to get to know. "At practice we're told 'this isn't high school anymore.' [College and high school] are two different atmospheres and we are aware of what we need to do. Sandy doesn't push us because she wants us to adjust naturally and do our best for the team."
The Dons took time away from the court to bond with one another at Point Bonita for a retreat in late summer. Christensen said it was a chance for the volleyball team to get away from the athletic part of the game, and begin to feel comfortable about playing together. Volleyball is a team sport and the six girls on the court must have a familiarity with each other's playing styles (TheFoghorn).
