Prout’s girls volleyball team has missed the playoffs both years since the culmination of its run in the 2021 state finals, but it has shown what it could be in that time. The Crusaders have consistently played close games but mostly come up short. Those difficulties could all pay off this season.
The year after reaching the state finals, Prout ushered in a new era of young players. Six girls from that group are now seniors, along with five juniors. The last two seasons have been about development, and now Prout has higher goals.
“Last year we were pretty young. We had juniors that had no experience on the varsity team,” said head coach Andrew Bevilacqua. “The biggest thing for us is we have to try to learn how to win again. We’ve struggled to win some close games the last couple of seasons and I think the group we have this year knows that and understands that. So far it’s been great in the hall. The vibe has been good, the attitude has been good. They’ve worked hard and I think they’re ready to change that.”
Prout showed promise last year, although they only finished 4-12. In the penultimate game of the season, the Crusaders became only the second team of the year to take a set from North Kingstown, and they nearly won the second set of that game before things went haywire. A big focus for the entire team this year is staying cool under pressure.
“I think we’ve really focused on serving this year. Defensively, we’ve changed our mindset a little bit so we always keep the ball up and don’t have to break plays,” Bevilacqua said. “The most important thing is that we’re going to try to be combative.”
If the Crusaders want to be competitive, Jett Cronin could have a big impact. The senior returns and starts as a libero.
Alice McGuire and Paige Megley are two seniors who will play center. Senior Anna Jalbert will play for them as one of the leaders. Sophomore Brooke Rutherford could also provide impact as a setter off the bench. Seniors Sarah Turner and Hannah Paolino will provide firepower on the outside. Junior Olivia Torok and sophomore Evelyn McGuire will also play on the outside.
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