By Matt Guear
The volleyball team is embracing change and reaping the rewards this season.
The River Hawks (12-10 overall, 3-2 Landmark) are under new leadership in the form of new head coach Stephanie Johnson. Johnson, who has served as the associate director of athletics since the summer of 2022, was named the interim head coach for this season.
Johnson played Division I volleyball at Coppin State, where she graduated from in 2012. She then went on to the University of Memphis where she obtained her master’s degree.
Following her collegiate career, Johnson moved on to become the assistant director of athletics at Delaware Valley University. She also served as an assistant volleyball coach while at Delaware Valley.
There seems to be a renewed energy around the team this year following Johnson’s appointment. According to Johnson, the team and coaching staff are employing an “attitude of gratitude”.
“All members, including myself, know that being a part of this team is special and we are all grateful for every moment we get to spend on the court together,” said Johnson.
This attitude seems to be working, as the River Hawks have won their past six matches dating back to September 28.
However, the appointment of Johnson hasn’t been the only change to this year’s season.
The NCAA has implemented a new ‘double hit’ rule. Per the NCAA website, a player is now allowed “to contact the ball more than once with any part of the body in a single attempt on a team’s second contact when the ball is played to a teammate.” The article goes on to say that if a ball is played over the net in this fashion, a fault will be called.
The rule was made to clean up any discrepancies and “to promote the continuation of play, which would make the game more entertaining for the players and fans.”
“The double contact rule is helping the game flow better,” said Johnson. “The whistle is blown less, and all athletes are adjusting to the new rules very well.”
Ultimately, the rule change seems to be for the better.
As the River Hawks look ahead to the rest of their season, they will start playing more conference opponents.
The River Hawks won’t back down, though. They plan to continue playing their game and let that take them as far as possible.
“Our main goal is to be consistent in everything we do and for everyone to play their role,” said Johnson. “Our consistency will take us where we want to go.”
The volleyball team will host Scranton 7 p.m. Friday at O.W. Houts Gymnasium before hosting both Drew (1 p.m.) and York (4 p.m.) on Saturday.