DOVE CREEK – For the past several years, the Dove Creek volleyball team has faced just about any challenge spiked their way.
The Bulldogs (26-4 in 2023) gave defending state champion Merino its toughest test in last year’s 1A state tournament semifinals, pushing the Rams to the limit before bowing out in one of the program’s best seasons.
Dove Creek returns seven seniors from that group to work under new coach Erin Barry.
Ranked sixth in the season-opening CHSAA coaches poll, one of the Bulldogs’ highest rankings to begin a season, Dove Creek returns one of the state’s top hitters in senior Ralynn Hickman, who tallied 411 kills in 2023.
Dove Creek seeks its eighth straight winning season, as the current group of seniors have tasted the success of multiple San Juan Basin League championships.
For many, it’ll be a step into the limelight, with senior setter Hannah Barry looking to set up Hickman and outside hitter Taylor Barry. Jenessa Barragan is another returning senior who saw plenty of court action last year as a steady back line presence.
Aspen Nye and Taryn Hickman will have elevated roles in the varsity rotation, while Jessica Alexander steps into the libero role for Barry’s squad.
“Each of our seniors have stepped up in their own way to help lead out team, and each of them is doing a great job in promoting the culture we want to develop,” said Barry. “The girls have been flexible with changes and have been willing to try new positions on the court. And with it, they’re accepting the challenges with grace and fortitude.”
The Bulldogs kicked off the 2024 campaign with matches against Moffat County and Plateau Valley this weekend in Rangely. Dove Creek will face rival Mancos on Tuesday, followed by Telluride on Aug. 31 and its Sept. 5 home opener against Monticello.
Along with battling for the top spot in the San Juan Basin League, the Bulldogs eye another strong season at regionals and look to return to the Denver Coliseum floor in mid-November for the 1A state tournament.
“I’m looking forward to this group coming together as a team – one that values every player – and I’m looking forward to seeing them have both individual and team success as they grow,” Barry said.
