After just missing out on the playoffs last season, the Lady Husky volleyball team would like nothing more than to avenge last year’s heartbreak and reach the state playoffs.

“Last year we tied for fifth place in conference with Wilkes Central. Even though we had beaten a higher ranked team in conference, and Wilkes Central had lost to a lower ranked team, they had beaten us twice, so they got the last playoff spot,” said varsity head coach Lindsey Williams. “The goal this year is to get that playoff spot, and finish at least fifth place in the conference.”

This year’s team will be a young one for the most part. Ashe will have just two seniors this year season, but a lot of good young talent behind them.

Aspen Domske should be one of the team leaders on this year’s squad.

“Aspen is an extremely athletic player and will help us all around. She is very game-savvy and moves to the ball well,” said Coach Williams. Domske is also one of the hardest hitters on the team, which will be one of her biggest strengths on the court.

A pair of juniors, Sloan Elliot and Kelsey Hayes, are expected to play key roles on the court in preparation for a successful 2012 season.

“Sloan played up last year as a sophomore and is our strongest passer,” said Coach Williams. “She will libero for us this year and will be key to a strong defense and a good start to our offense.”

Hayes is expected to be the top setter for the Lady Huskies. Williams characterizes her as a hard worker and a great leader for the squad.

The Lady Huskies will need some big plays from sophomore Abby Lopp this season as well.

“Abby saw some varsity minutes last year as a freshman, and played up to the level of her competition effortlessly,” said Coach Williams. “She is already a stand out in practice blocking shots, which will be essential to our defense this year.”

ACHS took part in its first scrimmage of the season on Thursday against Watauga. Ashe will have a scrimmage this Saturday at Alexander Central before the regular season begins next Tuesday, Aug. 14 at Avery County.

The ladies’ first conference game is set for Aug. 16 at East Wilkes, followed by the team’s first home game of the year against Avery on Aug. 21.

Ashe will have its first home Mountain Valley Conference game on Aug. 28 when they host Starmount.

The team must weather an early storm of having five of its first seven games on the road. However, it will pay off later in the season as teams begin their final push towards a playoff spot. The lady Huskies are scheduled have five of its last eight games on its home court.