CEDAR CITY, Utah - Volleyball season is nearing for the Thunderbirds, and the team is building toward the season opener next month. As they prepare to hit the court, let's look at the key players anchoring the middle for the Thunderbirds.

Head Coach Kacey Nady Said

"We are very balanced in our middle position. Carissa is going into her fourth season and brings consistency in both the attacking and blocking sides because she's so disciplined. Amaya is the best blocker on our team. She is very athletic and also has a spunky personality that brings a lot of fun day in and day out. Kennady was one of our best players in the spring and has grown immensely in a short period. I know she'll bring stability in her final season with SUU. The overwhelming feeling I have is gratitude as this position should be one of the hardest working in our gym, and they do a great job of leading in that way."

Carissa Richie - Senior from Minnetrista, MN

Carissa Richie enters her senior season with plenty of experience and impressive stats. In her junior year, Richie appeared in 20 matches, ranking fifth on the team in total kills with 90 and tallying 44 blocks, the second highest on the team. She averaged 1.48 kills per set, achieving a season-high of 11 kills against Eastern Washington and recording seven blocks against Saint Mary's. 

Richie appeared in 24 matches in her sophomore year and contributed significantly with 99 kills and 62 blocks. She played in all 28 matches as a freshman and secured 127 kills and 106 blocks. 

Kennady Charlton - Senior from Spanish Fork, UT

Kennady Charlton, a senior transfer from Salt Lake Community College, has quickly integrated into the team dynamics. Last season, she appeared in 17 matches, recording a season-high six kills in a match against Stephen F. Austin and five blocks against Utah Tech. 

During her time at SLCC, Charlton tallied 155 kills and maintained a .323 hitting percentage, with a career-high nine kills in a game against Indian River CC. Her experience makes her a valuable asset to the Thunderbirds' middle blocking unit.

Amaya Tobias - Sophomore from Las Vegas, NV

Amaya Tobias had a promising freshman season, appearing in 16 matches. She made her mark by setting a season-high with five blocks against Seattle U and recording five kills in a match against UNLV. Tobias is expected to build on her freshman experience and bring even more energy and skill to the middle this season.

Defensive Dynamos

With Richie's seasoned expertise, Tobias's youthful energy, and Charlton's solid background, Southern Utah's middle blockers are set to be a formidable force this season. Fans can look forward to a defensive show by these impressive athletes on the court this season.

Tickets

Tickets are on sale now! The home opener is set for the second week of the season when the T-Birds host the University of Idaho and UC Riverside in a tournament. All weekday home games will be played at 6:30 p.m. MT, while most Saturday games will begin at 1:00 p.m. MT. The exceptions to this are the Saturday of the home tournament (11 a.m. MT start) and Saturday, October 12, which is Homecoming weekend (7:00 p.m. start). Get your tickets today by visiting tbirdtickets.com!

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