Grannen and volleyball team hopeful about sophomore season

By Macie Zimmerman

After facing many uncertainties during the 2020-2021 season, Mike Grannen is hopeful that his second year will run smoother because of young talent and veteran leadership.

Grannen welcomes many new faces to the varsity level. The 2021-2022 varsity team, ranked 13 in class 5A, is already working together cohesively. Because of their ability and team chemistry, Grannen has set high expectations.

“We have a highly competitive group so we hope to hang with the rest of the teams and grow,” said Grannen. He also hopes to end the regular season with only one loss in the MAC and peak during the postseason.

Izzy Vandewiele, a starting junior, has been an important player for the Bulldogs this year. Grannen expects Vandewiele to lead the offense, know what is going on around her, and clean things up.

“When Izzy does well the team does well,” said Grannen.

Vandewiele sets expectations for herself in hopes of becoming a better player.

“I want to get better at blocking, be more aggressive and loud on the court, and help out my team more,” said Vandewiele.

Tyler Ramstack, one of four returning seniors, expects herself to be a team leader and perform her best on the court. Grannen has similar expectations for Ramstack.

“I think coach has the same expectations as last year- jive as a team on and off the court and develop each other into better players than when the season started,” said Ramstack.

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Macie, class of '22, is a senior. This is her first year

as a staff writer for The Growl.