When Patrick Henry hits the court for the regular season, the Patriots will be returning eight players, as they look to defend their Western Valley District title.

Patrick Henry, who will fight with Franklin County this season for the top spot, will be counting a lot on returning senior Liz Brailsford, who has 423 kills and 244 digs, as well as setting a state record for kills in a match with 42. Sophomore Caroline Braisford (555 assists, 77 kills), senior Bailey Marshall (82 kills), junior Cathy Ren (77 kills), senior Taylor Sparrow, junior Jasmine Keeling and sophomore Morgan Robison.

New to the varsity program this season are senior Alisha Terry, juniors Elizabeth Hiigs and Heather Carlisle, along with sophomores Lauren Deck and Paige Pest.

"We have an experience group of players, great outside hitters and setters," said coach Patricia Sheedy, who saw her team go 10-0 in the WVD and 15-8 overall, when asked about the Patriots strenghs this season.

As for any team weaknesses, the coach replied, "Height."

Patrick Henry opens its regular season on Thursday, Aug. 26, when they travel to Bassett.