By: by Jason Hanes
KENNESAW, Ga. - The wait is almost over for new Kennesaw State volleyball head coach Karen Weatherington to see her charges in action. The Owls will depart Thursday for the Staybridge Suites Rocket Invitational in Toledo, Ohio, which will serve as the start of the 2009 campaign for the Owls.
"There's always a lot of excitement going into a new season," said Coach Weatherington. "The team has been working very hard in practice and I'm sure this season will be the best ever at Kennesaw State."
The Owls will begin play Friday afternoon at 5:00 p.m. as they take on Marist. The Red Foxes return five starters from a squad that went 14-17 last season, including a 9-9 mark in Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference matches.
Saturday, the Owls continue play as they take on the Bryant Bulldogs. The Bulldogs went 16-19 last season as independent members of Division I.
The Owls wrap up the opening weekend as they take on the host Toledo Rockets. Toledo went 14-17 last year with a 5-11 mark in Mid-American Conference Play.
"Toledo has always been a very competitive program," said Coach Weatherington. "They have a new facility and a new head coach and they are hoping to get off to a big start by hosting this tournament.
"We'll experience a good variety of competition," Coach Weatherington continued. "This is a chance for all four teams to see the progress that they have made and find out early what they've got this season."
After this weekend, the Owls will return home to host the Great 8 Volleyball Challenge Presented by Residence Inn - Kennesaw. The Owls will co-host the event Sept. 4 and 5 with Georgia State, with matches taking place at both venues.
