By Jon Zemke
Daily Sports Writer
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| FILE PHOTO Sarah Behnke has helped Michigan bump its way into the rankings. The Wolverines finished their non-conference schedule with an 8-2 record. |
Michigan's '97 volleyball season was the best in team history, posting a 13-7 Big Ten record and 21-12 mark. The Wolverines finished third in the Big Ten and made their first trip to the NCAA tournament, where they made it to the second round before being ousted by Texas A&M.
These past accomplishments were overlooked by voters in preseason polls, who picked Michigan to finish seventh in the Big Ten.
Coach Greg Giovanazzi's squad has done much to rid itself of the "up-and-comer" label by going 8-2 in the '98 non-conference schedule. Michigan has handily put less-talented teams away - often sweeping them. In Michigan's two losses, which came to opponents in the top 20, it has played close, including taking No. 20 San Diego to the wire in five games.
Michigan has everything it needs to establish itself as a power this season. It has a veteran core of players led by Karen Chase, Jane Stevens and Jeanine Szczesniak. Most important, Giovanazzi has replaced graduated setter Linnea Mendoza by platooning sophomore Alija Pittenger and freshman Shannon Melka. Both have stepped up their play nicely.
The Wolverines have one weakness: They don't have the killer instinct to put their opponents away. Michigan has had its opportunities to defeat the two ranked opponents it has faced this season, but has failed to cash in on them.
Until Michigan learns how to finish off its tough opponents, it will remain an up-and-coming program - not the established one it could be.
09-21-98
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