The women's volleyball team can only be thinking one thing as they prepare for their 2007 season: Repeat. Last year the Firedogs defeated Williams College 3-1 in the final game of the conference tournament, earning the title of NESCAC Champions. They proceeded to win their first game in the NCAA Tournament, routing Emmanuel College. However, their NCAA run was cut short when they dropped their second-round match to MIT. Last year the team developed a thirst for success that will not easily be quenched. Players attribute last year's achievements to the tight bond between all members of the team.

"We had a lot of immediate chemistry last year since we only had one incoming freshman [Bethany Belisle '10], who bonded really well with the team," said senior tri-captain Jaclyn DeMais. "We also felt that we had something to prove."

Despite last season's success, the Jeffs will have some voids to fill in the upcoming season. The Firedogs graduated two seniors, Kristin Quinn and Laura Golden, both of whom played integral roles in the 2006 campaign. Quinn was named to the First Team All-NESCAC, awarded the title of NEWVA New England Player of the Year, and received AVCA All-America Honorable Mention, while Golden gained Academic All-NESCAC honors and anchored the young defensive line. Both will be missed, but the team feels confident that the veteran players will step up to fill the graduates' shoes and are excited about the incoming first-years who will add new depth to the team.

DeMais will be joined as captain by fellow seniors Whitney Kouvaris and Julie Berkley. "Our three captains play a huge role in the offense and defense of our team," said setter Sarah Heller '09. "They work well together and will do a great job leading us this season."

DeMais was named to the First Team All-NESCAC. DeMais and Kouvaris, both outside hitters who averaged 3.73 and 2.87 kills per game, respectively, will be joined at the position by Claire Holton-Basaldua '09. Berkley will take control of the back line with Belisle, who had a terrific rookie year.

Heller will be expected to lead by example as the team's star setter. In 2006, Heller led the NESCAC in assists with 1,323 and will need to continue to provide superb sets for her outside hitters if the Firedogs want to score some points. When asked how they were able to dominate the NESCAC last year, Heller said, "Our fire and enthusiasm intimidates other players and demoralizes teams' dynamics. We show up to play volleyball, and to win." But will the Firedogs be able to keep their fire when every other team is gunning for them, trying to beat the reigning NESCAC champs? DeMais believes the key to a repeat will be "to stay consistent on personal levels and as a team throughout each game." If they are able to do that, they should have as good a shot as ever to repeat.

The season starts on Sept. 8 at Roger Williams University.