The UF volleyball team set the bar high in 2014, but it can undoubtedly soar higher in 2015.
The Gators strung together a 23-game win streak, went undefeated in Southeastern Conference play (18-0) and even made an appearance in the NCAA Tournament’s quarterfinals for the first time since 2011.
While the season was impressive, Florida returns the majority of the talent and pieces it needs for an even better run in 2015.
Last year’s SEC Freshman of the Year Rhamat Alhassan returns to the court as the nation’s reigning leader in hitting percentage (.458).
Now a sophomore and a year of collegiate play under her belt, the 6-foot-4 middle blocker will look to anchor the front line and improve upon her team-leading 149 blocks.
Alex Holston, the 2014 SEC Volleyball Player of the Year, will return as a junior after leading the team in points per set (4.46) and kills per set (3.83).
Florida will count on the versatile right-side hitter’s abilities this season.
While UF brings all of its offense back, the Gators lack experience on the defensive side.
Florida’s three back row starters from last season — libero Holly Pole and defensive specialists Madison Monserez and Taylor Unroe — all graduated.
Senior Nikki O’Rouke has the most experience of UF’s defensive specialists, playing in 52 matches during her first three years.
UF also has second-year players Sam Dubiel and Lindsey Rogers, as well as Santa Fe College transfer Ann-Lorrayne Bzoch, to provide depth to a shallow backcourt.
Bzoch has the best resume of the three, playing in all 141 sets for Santa Fe and leading the Saints to their first Mid-Florida Conference title. She averaged 4.29 digs per set and tallied 15 service aces during the season.
Dubiel played in nine sets during her first year at UF, recording a just two digs but also showcasing a powerful float-serve when behind the line.
And Rogers redshirted as she began her transition from an outside hitter in high school to a collegiate defensive specialist.
Perhaps more important than all, Mary Wise will be at the helm of UF’s volleyball team will once again, who cashed in her 800th career win last season.
The 2014 SEC Coach of the Year will look to add to her legacy and her 742-88 record at UF in her 25th season in Gainesville.
The Gators open the season on Aug. 29 against James Madison in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Follow Patrick Pinak on Twitter @Pinakk12.
Mackenzie Dagostino sets the ball during No. 8 seed Florida's 3-1 win against Miami in the second round of the NCAA Tournament on Dec. 6, 2014, in the O'Connell Center.
