As summer ends and fall ensues, so does the return of Bradley sports. For our first official staff picks of the school year, we asked our writers to select which fall sport they were most excited about.
Volleyball
By Gabriel Holowka
Among the many teams preparing to take the court, the women’s volleyball team stands out as one to watch out for. Last season, they faced many talented teams and finished the season with a 9-22 overall record and a 2-16 conference record. Still, the team’s difficulties could act as a foundation for an exciting revival that could come this very season.
The Braves have a core of returning players along with fresh talent. The dynamic blend of new faces and veteran players is expected to boost the team’s performance. If they can clean up their game, those losses will become wins. The matches they could not complete defined their season last year, but this next season looks bright.
Watch out for the Bradley women’s volleyball team this fall as they take to the court. They can leave a mark on the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC).
Soccer
By Owen Dimpfl
Peoria City Soccer caused a buzz this summer because of its stellar season. The Flying Carp had a 12-4-5 record and was the national runner-up in the USL League Two Playoffs. Their playoff games at Shea Stadium drew record attendances.
Pair that excitement with Bradley’s new head coach, Tim Regan, taking over the program after 28 years with Jim Derose, the winningest coach in program history. It will be interesting to see it play out, but this summer proved that Peoria can support their home soccer team well
Cross Country
By Latif Love
Despite arguably being Bradley’s most successful sport, cross-country is often underappreciated. Over the last decade, the men’s and women’s teams have won multiple MVC championships and frequently finish in the top three. This year’s team returns many runners from last year’s second-place team and has added a lot of talent. Braves fans should be excited to watch the team’s development in coach Carlson’s second year at the helm.
Volleyball
BY Mark Wagner
Bradley volleyball’s losing record streak of two years might be coming to an end this year.
Head coach Alicia Williams is entering her third year with the Braves, whose potential is through the roof. Sophomore Tendai Titley has already shown her prowess on the court. Junior Anna Kiss transferred to Bradley from NJCAA school Cowley after an NJCAA Division II Second Team All-American season. In the offseason, the Braves added three freshmen: setter Maria Drapp, middle blocker Dakota Elliott and outside hitter Myia McCoy.
Williams and the rest of the team hope for a great season thanks to significant additions and returning players.
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