Lewis and Clark Women’s Volleyball Sets High Standards for 2025 Season

GODFREY, IL - With a mix of returning leaders and a large incoming class, the Lewis and Clark Community College women's volleyball team is diving into the 2025 preseason with a focus on culture, competition and growth.
The Trailblazers returned to campus this month after a summer of accountability-driven conditioning.

"Players received a summer conditioning plan," head coach Jenna Brown said. "To keep each other accountable, they would send daily pictures and videos of themselves working out."

This year's roster features five returners and 15 new players, giving the program fresh energy. Two returning standouts, Karen Lewis and Lauren Bertagnolli, have already stepped into leadership roles. Newcomers Sarah Baldwin, an outside hitter, and Anaiah Clanton-El, a middle hitter, are expected to make immediate impacts with their powerful hitting and versatile defense.

Two themes dominate the team's preseason: "hustle" and "hunger." The coaching staff expects every player to commit to 100% effort in the gym while staying driven to improve daily.

"When they step foot in the gym, they all need to buy into 100% hustle and effort and continue to be hungry to get better every day," Brown said.

The Trailblazers are also working on chemistry-building through a unique partner rotation system. Each practice day, players are paired with a different teammate for conditioning and drills, followed by written reflections and group sharing.

"It's been a super cool experience listening to reflections," Brown said.

The competitive nature of the NJCAA Region 24 conference will provide an early challenge. Last year, three conference teams ranked within the top 10 nationally. In preparation, the Trailblazers are focusing on mental toughness and performing under pressure.

Preseason, Brown emphasized, will set the tone for the entire season. "The amount of hours spent together on and off the court will be what leads to our success," she said.

Looking ahead, the coaching staff is energized by the team's ambition.

"What excites me the most are the players' goals they have for themselves as individuals and for the team," Brown said. "They are very goal-oriented, and it's super cool to see them reflect and grow."

The Trailblazers open their 2025 campaign later this month, aiming to translate their preseason preparation into early wins and a strong showing in one of the most competitive conferences in the country.
 
Written by Alexandra Dunn, Athletics Social Media Coordinator, Lewis and Clark Community College