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by CHRIS IRELAND
Sports Reporter
Despite a 6-24 (2-14) regular season record, the Appalachian State University volleyball team is optimistic about its future, thanks to the emergence of a young leader in sophomore Lauren Swecker.
The outside hitter from Charlotte has become a focal point in the Appalachian game plan with her consistency.
“She’s been a big part of our team this year,” head coach Matt Ginipro said. “She’s very solid, nothing fazes her.”
Swecker is third on the team in both kills with 249 and digs with 223.
Ginipro said she chooses to lead her teammates by letting such statistics speak for themselves.
“She’s not very vocal,” he said. “She leads us by example.”
Don’t confuse Swecker’s quiet personality with disinterest, however.
Her role as a leader is something taken to heart.
“Being a leader is a role I take very seriously,” Swecker said. “I try to have confidence in everything I do.”
Heading into the season, the Mountaineers were searching for someone to replace 2007 Southern Conference Player of the Year
Brittany Zahn, who left after graduating.
The team turned to Swecker to fill the role.
“During the preseason, I told Lauren that we needed her,” Ginipro said. “We were looking for a go-to hitter.”
While becoming the team’s premier hitter, Swecker has also brought a hard working mentality to ASU.
“I try to leave it all out there on the court,” she said. “You don’t want to have any regrets.”
Swecker’s competitive fire has made an impression on a young Mountaineer roster that includes only two seniors.
“She’s awesome,” freshman outside hitter Maggie Seeds said. “She encourages everybody to stay positive and keeps us focused.”
It hasn’t always been easy for the Mountaineers to stay positive.
ASU is currently ranked last in the SoCon North division.
“We’ve struggled,” Swecker said. “But we took a while to get familiar with playing with each other.”
This season’s struggles mean the team is looking toward the future, where Swecker figures to play a big part.
“I don’t
expect this with every player, but I’m excited to see how her
leadership develops,” Ginipro said. “She could grow into one of our
best.”
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