Fresh start for FLC

The Forest Lake Christian School volleyball team turned in an impressive 2007 season despite some major turmoil early in the season. Hopes are brimming this year as the Falcons begin the year drama-free."Last year was really hectic," junior outside hitter Caitlin Hanson said. "We had a switch in coaches and a lot of drama. This year we're a lot more united. We're more of a family unit than last year, so it's been a lot better starting out."Coach Laura Allred took over the Forest Lake program in mid-September last season and helped the Falcons do more than just salvage the season. They wound up 17-10 and were the Central Valley Christian League co-champions.Forest Lake brings back all but one starter from a team that was one win from the Sac-Joaquin Section Division V championship match last year."Last year we were one match from the section final and this year I think we can only be better," senior outside hitter Tasha Haddad said. "We only have three seniors, but I think we have a great platform to build on with the juniors and sophomores."Standout setter Jen Menary teams up with Hanson and Haddad to give the Falcons a potent attack. Menary was a first-team all-CVCL selection last season and will set up the Falcons' attack again this year."She is just a ball of energy," Haddad said of Menary. "She is everywhere on the court, always yelling at us and encouraging us."Departed senior Bethany Huusfeldt will be missed, but senior Tessa Gavia and junior twins Leslie and Christy Johnston will look to fill the void.Junior Morghan Pomeroy has great athleticism at middle blocker and sophomore Amanda Timmerman adds size and skill to the front line. Chelsea Street, Micah Steadman and Katy Pyle add depth for Forest Lake.The Falcons expect another tight race for the CVCL title with Woodland Christian and Vacaville Christian bringing back talented rosters.FLC has gone deep into the playoffs each of the past three seasons, but the section crown has eluded it."I am hoping we can go at least one match further in the playoffs," Allred said. "I think it's possible. This team really fights hard."