The Purdy volleyball team may be the youngest Coach Barry Wheeler has had throughout his 38-year career, and it will rely on four returners among five freshmen to reach its goals this season.

Leading the squad this year are three seniors — setter Zoey Webb, middle hitter Gracie Patton and defensive specialist Brooklynn Bunch — as well as a junior, outside hitter Lauren Brooks.

‘All four of these players have strong leadership skills and work ethic,’ Wheeler said. ‘Zoey pursues every ball, Gracie can play six rotations, Brooklynn is really athletic and Lauren can also play six rotations. [We look for our seniors to] set the proper example of a successful leader.’

Joining the quartet is a quintet of freshmen in setter Kenzi Postlewait, outside hitter Chloe Prock, libero Ellie Nunez, middle hitter Shelbie Patterson and opposite hitter Casey Henderson.

‘Kenzi is athletic and can play six rotations, Chloe is athletic with a strong serve, and Ellie also has a strong serve and moves well,’ Wheeler said. ‘Shelbie is a good defender with a strong serve, and Casey is a utility player with strong work ethic.’

The Lady Eagles return after a 7-21-2 season, falling to Verona in a five-set (30-28, 19-25, 25-21, 23-25, 13-15) district tournament quarterfinal thriller.

‘Our goal this season is to reach the district semifinal,’ Wheeler said. ‘We have great team unity, and we still have room for improvement in passing and ball placement.’

Wheeler said his team’s schedule is favorable to its goals, and it includes tournaments in Verona, Bolivar and Southwest. Wheeler said if fans were to pick one game to pack the gym, he hopes it’s on senior night.

‘We love celebrating their accomplishments,’ he said.

Purdy’s season and home opener is Aug. 30 against Bronaugh. The season finale is the senior night contest, an Oct. 21 home matchup with Hurley. Purdy will also host a pink-out night against Exeter on Oct. 3.