Women's Volleyball | 9/2/2010 7:55:16 AM

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - The Methodist volleyball team is coming off a successful 2009 season after earning the most wins in a season in nearly 20 years.

Head coach Eddie Matthews has been building a program anxious to contend in the USA South Athletic Conference. With 10 returners including three All-Conference honorees a year ago, the Monarchs are primed for a great year.

"I am very excited about the personnel we have coming back and I am looking forward to getting the newcomers into the flow of the college game," Matthews said.

After arriving on campus Aug. 18, the team has been training for the last two weeks in preparation for a busy season. Sophomore Stephanie Wood averaged more than three kills per set a year ago on her way to earning First Team All-Conference recognition. Junior setter Kayci Miller earned Second Team honors and was recently named captain of the 2010 team, while junior Jalesty Washington is a two-time All-Conference honoree for the Monarchs.

The combination of the strong nucleus of returners along with the talented newcomers will make the Monarchs a competitive team.

"I can't wait to watch our returners continue to grow, mature and get better," Matthews added. "It's evident after last season, they are not satisfied with where we finished. Their work ethic has improved and I know they're working hard to get better every day."

The Monarchs were picked fourth in the USA South preseason poll, the same place the team finished last year. "We really want to make a push to compete at the top of the conference," Matthews said. "It has always been a goal for us, but hasn't materialized. Now I feel we can legitimately compete."

Joining Matthews on the sidelines is assistant Jon Garner. Garner has volunteered previously, but Matthews is thrilled to have his first true assistant this season.

"Jon has already lightened the load," Matthews said. "He brings a wealth of knowledge to the floor and will prove invaluable in game situations."

The Monarchs will open with their Labor Day Invitational Friday and Saturday when they host Agnes Scott, Meredith, Philadelphia Biblical and Sweet Briar. The Monarchs will wrap up Friday's schedule with their first contest of the year against Agnes Scott at 8 p.m.