Coach Dave Schroeder hopes to build on the overall success of last year’s squad that finished with 26 wins, the most in Schroeder’s tenure.  However, finishing seventh in the MCC was a disappointment that the team is looking to turn around.  Seven letterwinners return, including four that that led last year’s squad in various statistical categories, giving Coach Schroeder a solid core on which to build success in the 2007-08 campaign. 

Topping the list of returners is two-time MCC Libero of the Year, senior Stephanie Stearns.  Stearns averaged an impressive 6.9 digs per game last season while also leading the team in passing (93%).  She also led the team in serving percentage by getting in 97% of her serves.   

Setter Alyssa Schroeder, a Second Team All-Conference selection as a freshman last year, returns to the Forester lineup.  Schroeder dished out a team-high 11.0 assists per game in her first season and was second on the team in digs at 3.2 per game.   

Junior Kayley Cervenka returns as the Foresters top blocker with her 1.1 denials per game last season and sophomore Amanda Meyers led last year’s squad with her 0.5 ace per game average.  As a freshman, Brittney Smelser averaged 2.6 kills per game, which makes her the top returning hitter as a sophomore this season.  Senior outside hitter, Heidi Christner and junior defensive specialist Trisha Donaghy will both add experience to the roster.

Coach Schroeder is also looking for a few members of his incoming class to make an immediate impact.  Natalie Villwock (Fort Wayne, IN), a 5-11 junior college transfer, will provide size and experience as a middle hitter.  Courtney Berger (Fort Wayne, IN), is a 5-11 outside hitter that also could help the Foresters immediately, and two defensive specialists, junior Laura Bowman (La Fontaine, IN) and freshman Chelsey Melvin (Columbia City, IN) will add depth to the roster.

With several key players returning, the 2007-08 Foresters are looking to continue the success they had a year ago and carry it over to the MCC this season.  The team is eyeing a top three finish in the conference standings and an opportunity to host a first-round tournament game.