Aug. 22, 2008

WINSTON-SALEM, NC - With the start of the 2008 season just a week away, the Winston-Salem State Lady Rams volleyball team is gearing up for the season in fall practice sessions. In the team's second season under head coach Douglas Hunter and with six newcomers to the squad, the Lady Rams are working to build the chemistry amongst a talented squad.

The team began fall practice last week and primarily focusing on fundamental skills, the team got into team defensive drills and full six-on-six drills this week. The 2008 Lady Rams will need to improve their chemistry with a pair of new setters joining the squad this fall.

"The talent is definitely there for the team," Hunter said during a Thursday practice session. "Right now, we need to work on chemistry and getting everyone on the same page."

Setting duties for the Lady Rams will most likely be split between the freshman duo of Alexandria Brown and Asia Carr. The move will allow senior utility Valentina Pushkina and junior outside hitter Lore McBroom to move back to their natural positions after both players split setting duties last season.

The Lady Rams will open the 2008 season on Friday when the team takes part in the Hawthorn Suites Hokie Invitational in Blacksburg, Va. The Lady Rams will open the season when they take on the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers on the opening day of the tournament.

For more information on Winston-Salem State University Lady Rams volleyball, contact the Winston-Salem State University Department of Athletic Media Relations at (336) 750-2909 or log on to www.WSSURams.com.