Lady Panthers work with freshmen
MARTIN COUCH Sports Editor

BACK AT YOU JACKIE PARKER PHOTO Benton Lady Panther Amber Paul goes up to knock the ball back across the net to the Benton Lady Panthers freshman team during a recent practice in the Benton Arena.

Practice is getting redundant for the Benton Lady Panthers.

On Aug. 21, the Lady Panthers open their 2008 season with a jamboree at the Benton Arena against Bryant, Little Rock Mills, Little Rock Christian and Malvern. That's when the Lady Panthers can unleash their new style and new team after graduating key seniors who were starters.

"We've been practicing hard and made some changes," said Benton head coach Brandy Chumley. "They are starting to come together a little bit."

Cami Coulon has been moved to a setter, while Amber Paul was moved to an outside hitter.

"It's mainly for passing more and it kind of set fire to them more," Chumley said. "I've seen it and I really like it."

Others showing improvement are Sam Comet, who has stepped in as a hitter.

"She's doing pretty good and I'd have to say is making the most improvement," Chumley said. "We need for more of the girls to step up and if we get that, we'll be all right. We also need to be more consistent with our hitting. In general though, we're coming around."

Chumley mentioned that Paul, Rachel White and Megan Brown have picked up the energy level in practices.

"They have been more aggressive and working harder," Chumley said. "Megan is our only senior and she's improved a lot as a middle hitter."

COACHING JACKIE PARKER PHOTOS Above left, Michelle Shoppach coach of the freshman team watches. Above, Benton Lady Panther head coach Brandy Chumley speaks. BENTON FRESHMAN TEAM JACKIE PARKER PHOTOS The Benton Lady Panthers freshman team gets instructions from senior high head coach Brandy Chumley during practice.