Texan Volleyball is back and running

BY ALEXIS GONZALEZ

Multimedia Journalist

As the volleyball season unfolds, Tarleton State University has played in three tournaments, posting a 6-6 record. So far, the top performers have been senior middle blocker Emma Burke and junior opposite hitter Breannah Peterson.

Burke, in her final season with the Texans, was named to the Preseason All-WAC team in August. Her goal this year is to build strong connections and win a conference championship.

“My goal for this season is to build lifelong relationships with my teammates, leave a legacy not just as a volleyball player but as a TSU athlete and, of course, become the first conference championship [team] in the Division 1 era,” Burke said.

Peterson is new to the WAC this season after transferring over from the University of Miami.

“I’m new to the WAC, so I’d say every game I look forward to just because I’m not familiar,” Peterson said.

Burke and Peterson are both excited for the new era for the Texans, with new teammates and a brand-new head coach.

“I am super blessed to be a part of this team, especially my last season. I truly believe each of us all want the same goals, and we are willing to put the work in to reach them,” Burke said. “I love each teammate like a sister, and I am thankful that they will stick by my side through everything. I also am blessed to get the coaching staff that I have this season. They pour a lot into each and every one of their athletes and they truly believe in us.”

Peterson shared a similar sentiment.

“How I feel about the team this year is a lot of things that I haven’t felt genuinely about a team in a long time,” Peterson said. “These girls and the staff brought me in when I was trying to find my love for the game again and made me love it again instantly. This team is special to me, and I want to soak up the last two seasons I have left with them.”

Burke has started the season with 69 kills, 102 points and 50 blocks. Peterson currently has 53 kills, 68 points and 28 blocks.

Conference play starts Sept. 25, where the team will play away against California Baptist University. The game should be a tell-tale sign of what’s to come for the rest of the regular season.