Pullman girls ready for season

PULLMAN — After ending the 2022 volleyball season undefeated in conference play and finishing fourth in the state 2A tournament, the Greyhound girls are practicing for the 2023 season.

Pullman finished last year with an overall record of 16-5, including a 10-0 record in the 2A Greater Spokane League.

The local girls ended with league and district championships.

The Greyhounds posted an undefeated league record in 2020 and 2019, when they went 12-0.

Heading into state last year as the No. 9 seed, there were not many expectations for the Greyhounds.

But Coach Megan McNannay took her team past White River in the opening round of the playoffs after the Greyhounds won in reverse sweep style, 3-2.

Pullman turned the tables again in its next match — against No. 1-ranked Lynden. The Greyhounds dropped the first two sets, but then swept the Lions the next three sets to reach the semifinal against Ridgefield.

The Spudders showed why they were one of the top teams in the state — their size and strength proved to be too much for Pullman.

The Greyhounds would then lose the game to Burlington-Edison to finish fourth in state.

The Greyhounds have lost three starters from last years team. They will be replacing both of last year’s outside hitters, as well as a setter/defensive specialist.

Losing both starting outsides is challenging as outside hitters typically receive most of the attack opportunities.

McNannay has work to do this week to find their replacements.

The good news is Pullman is bringing back three players who made either first-team or second-team All-League.

Middle blocker Sophie Armstrong and libero Lily McNannay — both were named to the first-team All-League last season — return.

Gabby Oliver also made second-team All-League as a setter last year and is returning.

The Greyhounds will look to those three to lead the way this season.

The Greyhounds open this year’s play Tuesday, Sept. 5, hosting Ephrata Their first conference game is Tuesday, Sept. 26, at Shadle Park.