NEW LENOX, Ill. — First-year head coach Amy Bernhard is setting a new tone for Lincoln-Way Central volleyball, and her Knights are ready to embrace it.
Bernhard, stepping in for her first season, said her priority is building confidence while competing with top programs. “I’m excited for us to be competitive with some of the upper-level schools,” Bernhard said. “Whether we win or lose, I want us to fight every point and compete in every match.”
The Knights will lean on key players: setter Kaitlyn Hedrich, right-side Penny Smith, and middle hitter Ella Thompson, who returns after missing last season. Bernhard said the trio’s leadership is already setting the tone.
Hedrich hopes to lead beyond the court. “I want to influence people to try their hardest,” she said. Thompson wants to provide steady encouragement, while Smith said she hopes to be the senior leader younger players can look up to.
After finishing 17-19 last season, the Knights set their goal at finishing .500 or better. Bernhard said that, combined with a more positive atmosphere, will measure success.