Why is it that Paula Palmer Burns is always smiling?
Well, not only is she the new head coach of the Dexter volleyball team, but she has inherited a team loaded with talent, enthusiasm and dedication as the Dreadnaughts prepare to open the 2021 volleyball season.
“We are looking forward to continuing to raise our level of play to compete in the Red Division of the SEC,” said Palmer Burns. “We are excited to battle against the top teams in the state in our conference and carry those lessons into the postseason.”
She added that she is “grateful” to have Crystal Kedroske and Erin Penn returning as varsity assistants. They also welcomed Andrea Gotcher, Quinn LaFontaine, and Julie and Steve Wineman to the high school staff this year.
Dexter’s top returning players include Anna Creech (outside hitter); Avery Goodrich (three-year varsity starter, outside hitter); Jamie Giese (opposite hitter); Hanna Quinn (three-year varsity starter, middle hitter); and Paige Sayler (opposite hitter).
Two returning juniors are Mikah Salemi (returning starting middle hitter) and Braedy Wineman (setter).
New players include junior Savannah Smith, an opposite hitter/middle hitter who is an extremely versatile player that leads in the back row as well.
Dexter went 14-4 last year and was undefeated in the SEC White. This year they feature “many extremely solid and dynamic six rotation players,” according to their smiling coach.
Here are some of the volleyball highlights coming up in 2021:
Thursday: Home vs. Lincoln (SEC opener)
Saturday: MI Elite Tourney – All Teams at Schoolcraft Livonia
9/14 – Parent Night Home vs. Saline
9/28 – Senior Night Home vs. Pioneer
10/12 – Teacher Appreciation Home vs. Bedford
10/21 – Dig Pink at Chelsea
