According to Coach Pickering, the Olympics have made the sport more popular in the United States. "The Olympics were a chance for people to see that volleyball is more than just a backyard game," said Pickering. With his knowledge of California high schools a little weak, Pickering will at first emphasize Oregon and Washington for recruiting. Assistant Coach Brenda Vizzard will aid the new coach in that area. She played here at USF and has some knowledge of the local area. Pickering feels she will also help in the area of communication. "Brenda has given me some good insights on the players,"' said Pickering.
The Dons'Â volleyball team is also a fine team. Their record belies the talent which the team possesses. The Dons play an excellent brand of volleyball, and despite their record, they are seldom overwhelmed by an opposing team. As was the case a year ago, the Dons have a "never give up" attitude, a qualify seldom seen in losing team. Many times this year they have fought back from 2-0 game deficits and tied the match. This talented squad can only get better since they lose only one senior (Brenda Vizzard). The Dons are led by Vizzard and four sophomores: Jenni Boron, Kathy Horan, Toni Ray and potential All-American Kathy Schindler. With the addition of another top-quality player, the Dons should be a team to be reckoned with in the near future. Hopefully, home attendance will rise in the near future, as a many time spectator, I can attest to the fact that the volleyball matches are exciting and enjoyable.
Starting forwards Lisa Daughtrey and Melissa Melton lead the contingent of five returnees challenging for playing time up front. Daughtrey led the team in scoring last season with a 13.0 average and hit 45.1 percent from the floor. Melton, the team's enforcer, was among the NorCal conference leaders in blocked shots, and led the Dons in minutes played. Scrappy Brenda Vizzard, smooth Sonja Haugejorde, and hardworking Ann Goetze will challenge the starters for court time. Linda Walsh, a tall, dominating center with a deadly hook shot anchors the USF front line. She averaged 10.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game in '81-'82. Junior College transfer Sue Bacon, who was Camino Norte Conference "'Player of thc Year" at the College of Marin, will back up Walsh, and also see time at forward. Freshman Theresa Podesta, the MVP at St. Rose Academy will get her feet wet this season (TheFoghorn).
