In preparation for the 2023 season, WSU volleyball held a scrimmage and meet and greet for season-ticket holders Thursday. While missing Magda Jehlárová and Iman Isanovic, who are competing in the European Championships, many new and returning players showcased their skills for the fans.
Notable players included Jasmine Martin, the middle blocker returning from an ACL injury, Katy Ryan and new addition Lana Radakovic.
Martin’s injury meant that the team was without middle blocking depth in 2022, but her return and recovery is great for the upcoming season.
“We’re proud of the development [she’s] made and, to answer simply, that’s at some level [she] will be 100% this season,” assistant coach Burdette Greeny said.
Head coach Jen Greeny said that Martin was one of the standouts of the scrimmage, being able to play and make an impact on the court. She added that she has been working hard to get back to a point where she can make an impact this season, something that the coaches have been proud of her for.
“She’s been fabulous. I think her attitude and work ethic and the time she has put in. It’s fun to see her back out at full strength, ready to hopefully make an impact,” Jen said.
For Burdette, a few players who have stood out over the summer has been Ryan and Logann Golden. Those two have especially impressed in their maturity, doing exactly what the team asks of them and their role.
“Katy’s a huge part of our offense and defense. The maturity that she has, it’s phenomenal. She’s more mature than most adults that I know that are 50 years old like she is really impressive,” Burdette said.
Having similar praise for Golden, Burdette said she has been all-in on the plans and goals of the team, willing to do whatever it takes.
“We’re impressed with her maturation and we’ve been talking about her belief in herself. She is an intelligent kid. She’s a good player. She needs to believe in herself. And I think we’re starting to see that. I think she’s all in on what we do,” he said.
With the season starting next week in Louisville for the Cougs, the scrimmage was the last public showcase of the team prior to their real matches.
