HENDERSON, Nev. (August 19, 2021) – So much of what happened in the Spring 2021 season just wasn't normal for the College of Southern Nevada volleyball program.
 
Fast-forwarding to the Fall 2021 season and the Lady Coyotes are looking forward to more of what they're used to, particularly as they prepare for another season under CSN coach Jessica Diehl. Southern Nevada looks forward in anticipation to its opening day of August 26, where the Lady Coyotes will travel to Yuma, Ariz., to play in a tournament hosted by Arizona Western.
 
As fall camp continues to progress, Diehl said the Lady Coyotes have entered practices with a sharp focus.
 
"This group is very direct with one another, which helps them figure what they need quickly," she said.  "It's such a fun group to coach because each player has a strong urge to win. They have shown great strides in their physical development."
 
Southern Nevada will feature an almost entirely new squad this season, with just one returner from last year's squad. With so many new players, along with new staff members within the program, CSN's focus has existed around learning how to work and play together.
 
"Our preseason goals have been focused on connecting with one another on the court, and establishing standards set in culture training," Diehl said. "Our team purpose keeps us focused in practice so we remain on the same page. We understand this is a team sport and each person needs to perform at their best every day, while also getting better. As we connect off the court, we are learning to have each other's back. Collectively these athletes have the right mindset helping them."
 
Looking towards a loaded Scenic West Athletic Conference, which features nationally-acclaimed programs like Salt Lake and Snow, the Lady Coyotes are focused on improving their stature within the league. While the inexperience of youth can sometimes be a downside, the upside comes from their confidence in achieving regardless of the circumstances or the competition.
 
"The team came up with their vision for the season; as their coaches, we are helping that vision come to life by holding these young women accountable every practice," she said. "They understand the talent their conference entails and the effort they need to give in order to make that vision become reality."
 
Southern Nevada will play its home opener on September 9, hosting Western Wyoming in a weekend tournament. The Lady Coyotes will open Scenic West play on September 23.