Varsity volleyball team excels

Amber Ortolano started her first year coaching varsity volleyball at Hartsville High School this season. She coached the junior varsity team at Hartsville last year and coached one year at the middle school level in New York.

“I wanted to coach volleyball because I have a passion for the sport and really missed the game especially since I chose not to play in college,” said Ortolano. She played volleyball in high school but chose to play softball at the college level.

“I think we have a good chance of winning the region and making it far in playoffs,” she said. “I can see this team playing in the state championship if we start to play better as a team and not play as individuals.”

This year’s varsity team has a 8-2 record, with a region record of 3-0 as of press time Thursday. The team of 12 girls, three seniors, eight juniors and one freshman, has only six returning players.

“This year’s team seems to have more knowledge of the game and seems to click a little better than last year’s team did,” said Ortolano. “I enjoy coaching this group of girls. They are always willing to improve and in the heat of the moment fight to the end and don’t give up.”

Her top players are No. 12 Keasiah Ham, No. 7 Jazz Phillips and No. 1 Lacey Tyner.

“[Ham] is my strongest hitter and my second setter. She is a real team leader and very aggressive,” said Ortolano.

Phillips, a middle hitter and blocker, “can really put the roof on someone when they are at the net hitting.”

And Tyner, the defensive specialist, called the libero, of the team, works the entire court and reacts quickly to the ball. “She is young and has some more years to improve and only get better,” said Ortolano.

A few members of the team plan to play in college, but, as most are dual-sport athletes, they will have to choose what sport to pursue.

“My freshman has some time yet to develop and get better than she already is, but she is one that will definitely catch the eyes of some collegiate teams,” said Ortolano.

A self-described competitive person, Ortolano enjoys her role in the sport as coach.
“I enjoy teaching my athletes new skills and watching them grow not only through sport and skill but as young women as well,” said Ortolano. “Teaching leadership, teamwork and character are all traits that they will need throughout their life.” 

SCORES & SCHEDULE

Monday Win @ McBee
25-16, 25-23

Tuesday Win vs. South Florence
25-20, 25-20 and 25-17

Next game
6 p.m. Tuesday vs. Carolina Forest @ Myrtle Beach