The Missouri Western Volleyball team has been selected sixth in the MIAA Preseason Coaches Poll.

The Griffons ended the 2013 campaign sixth in the conference standings after the team’s first winning MIAA record since 2000 and first winning season overall since 2006. All of this was accomplished in Marian Carbin’s first season as head coach.

Carbin’s 2014 squad returns four All-MIAA performers. Outside Hitter Erica Rottinghaus was a first team selection in 2013. Amanda Boender, Sarah Faubel and Kelsey Olion were all chosen honorable mention All-MIAA in 2013. Rottinghaus became the first Missouri Western player chosen to the first team since 2002 after leading the team in kills (387), points (455) and service aces (47).

Eight of the Griffons top-10 scorers return for 2014, including the top-three.

Missouri Western begins play on Sept. 5 at the Rockhurst Tournament. MWSU hosts preseason favorite Central Missouri in its home opener on Sept. 16.

2014 MIAA Preseason Coaches Poll

1. Central Missouri (6)        115
2. Washburn (4)                    110
3. Nebraska-Kearney (2)      108
4. Central Oklahoma              86
5. Emporia State                    76
6. Missouri Western            68
7. Pittsburg State                   59
8. Northwest Missouri          55
9. Lindenwood                       42
10. Fort Hays State               38
11. Missouri Southern           18
12. Southwest Baptist           17

— MWSU Sports Information —