The Gamecocks struggled in 2015, posting a 6-12 record in SEC play and losing 11 of 15 contests outside of the Carolina Volleyball Center. After a season where six freshmen saw significant playing time, head coach Scott Swanson has an experienced group heading into the 2016 season.
Swanson and the team opened practice Aug. 8 with two separate sessions in preparation for early season tournament play, beginning with the College of Charleston Tournament on Aug. 26.
Six sophomores who saw significant playing time during their first season in Columbia will return and be joined by five incoming freshmen, making this South Carolina team a pretty young bunch. The group also features five seniors and a former All-Conference USA junior transfer from Charlotte, meaning the Gamecocks may heavily rely on a few leaders.
One of those leaders will almost certainly be Dessaa Legros, a senior middle blocker and outside hitter. Legros led the team in kills in 2015, and the 5-foot-10 Georgia native has incredible leaping ability. Paired with senior outside hitter Koko Atoa-Williams, who averaged 1.27 kills per set last fall, Legros should be part of a formidable attack.
The Gamecocks will have to replace right side Sarah Blomgren, who finished second on the team in kills and blocks. Four players have the potential to step into Blomgren's role, but the right side position, just like every other spot, is completely up for grabs in the preseason, according to Swanson.
South Carolina has some young faces, but the Gamecocks also have players remaining from the team's winning season. Senior leadership will be key if Swanson is going to bring the ladies back to their winning ways.
Players to watch
Abreia Epps — The team's only junior had 280 kills for Charlotte on the way to Second Team All-Conference USA honors in 2015, and the Blythewood native will return home to South Carolina this season. A 6-foot outside hitter, Epps will bolster the Gamecocks' attack while playing alongside Legros and Atoa-Williams.
Aubrey Ezell — As a freshman, Ezell immediately became South Carolina's starting setter in 2015, playing in every single set and starting all 31 matches. After leading the SEC with 47 aces and finishing second in the school's record books with 1,167 assists, Ezell is poised for another strong season.
Mark your calendar
Sept. 2 vs. Clemson — Freshmen will get their first taste of Gamecock volleyball with a Palmetto State battle. Clemson limped to a 6-26 record last fall, so South Carolina's Carolina Classic opener should be an opportunity for the Gamecocks to build some confidence with a rivalry win.
Oct. 2 vs. Kentucky — South Carolina had a tough time against conference opponents in 2015, and the Wildcats won in straight sets in Columbia last season. This matchup is the third for the Gamecocks in conference play, but it's the first top-level opponent the team will face at home. This match should be an early barometer of how the Gamecocks will fare in SEC play.