The Enumclaw High Hornet volleyball team opens the season with talent and youth – a good combination.

Coach Jackie Carel is beginning her 26th year working with the program.

Last year she led the team to a South Puget Sound League 3A championship with an 8-2 record, 12-6 overall. The Hornets said goodbye to seven seniors from last year’s squad.

Carel said this year’s team is, “young with plenty of talent. We need time to gel and mature.”

The team features two seniors including Olivia Bannerot, a state gymnastic champion.

Bannerot was voted first-team libero last year.

Carel said Bannerot is back and “strong as ever.”

Also returning for the Hornets is sophomore Barbie Becker.

Carel has high expectations for Becker.

The coach said the team has, “big shoes to fill and I am hopeful that the girls will rise to the occasion.”