Photo Gallery #2

TOPEKA, Kan. -- The second part of our Lady Blues volleyball season preview will look at the liberos and setters for this year's squad.

For the Lady Blues to continue their streak of NCAA tournament runs they'll have to replace the most decorated setter in school history, Kate Hampson. She finished her career as Washburn's all-time leader in assists and assists per set and ranks second all-time in the MIAA in career assists.

The Setters:
Junior Amanda Guess is the only returning player who has seen action at the setter position. She totaled 88 assists in 45 sets serving as Hampson's backup last season. Abby Wittman will push for playing time as well after sitting out last season as a redshirt.

The Liberos/Defensive Specialists:
Two time all-MIAA honoree Molly Smith returns to anchor the Lady Blues' defense. She tallied 584 digs and 4.60 digs per set last season. Smith is currently eighth on Washburn's career list with 1,438 digs. Sophomore Tessa Brophy will challenge Smith after recording 346 digs during her freshman season. Sami McHenry will be in the mix after sitting out last season as a redshirt. Courtney Churchman joins the Lady Blues after graduating from Park Hill South High School where she was a Missouri All-Star, team MVP, a three time first team all-conference selection and a two time honorable mention all-state pick.

The No. 6-ranked Lady Blues open the season on September 3 and 4 at the St. Mary's Invitational in San Antonio, Texas.