This fall, there are a lot of young teams playing for Fox Chapel Area High School, and the girls volleyball team is one of them. Yet, regardless of their age or experience, coach Diana Andreyko remains optimistic about the program’s direction.
There are only two seniors on the team – Alina Stiger and libero Peyton Shema – but they are supported by an eager team that includes five juniors, 10 sophomores, and five freshmen. So far this season, the team’s typical varsity lineup includes junior Scarlett Hancock (outside hitter); sophomores Brooke Fenton and Adelyn Bursick (setters), Claire Feczko (outside hitter), Alaina Hershey (opposite), and Vanessa Perez Milano (middle back); and freshman Emma DiRocco (middle back).
Coach Andreyko recently talked about the team, the players, and her coaching philosophy.
Question: How would you assess how the team is doing so far?
Answer: The girls are working hard, and there is talent on the team. It is very satisfying to see that they all love the game and want to be here. This is the most special year for me so far as a coach. I see the improvement, and this is all I ever wanted.
Q: Players’ height certainly plays a big role in a sport such as volleyball. It appears as though you have more of that this season.
A: Yes, Elena is nearly 6’, and Emma is 6’1. Vanessa also is very tall.
Q: What other assets are the girls bringing to the team?
A: Many of the girls play club volleyball or take private lessons. The more you play, the better you get, so I’m pleased that our team will get stronger with their extra commitment. We also have some multisport girls who are very athletic.
Q: Where are you seeing the most improvement compared with last season?
A: Last year, we had a lot of players who were freshmen and sophomores with little to no experience. This year, they have learned how to play more as a unit, and there is more chemistry among them. That’s important, especially in girls athletics. They all are young, and no one has a star attitude. They all work together very well.
Q: What do you like about the new assistants you hired this season, and what value are they adding to the team?
A: Nikki Oaks is the new assistant, and she is also helping with our middle school program. Natalie Johnson is my second-year assistant and brings a positive attitude. She is a perfect balance between me and Nikki.
Q: Finally, how would you describe your own coaching style and the way you approach athletics?
A: I believe in being strict and demanding, but reasonable and realistic.
