In John Evenhouse’s first year back at the helm of the Pella Christian volleyball program, the Eagles finished runner-up in the Little Hawkeye Conference last fall and got within one game of the state tournament.

He says that success opened the eyes of some of his players, and has them hungry for more.

“The majority of my young women on the team played once or twice a week, and really realized that we can get a lot better at this game and we can work in the Little Hawkeye Conference for a high spot again this year.”

Evenhouse says that the Eagles also have their sights set on a return trip to the state tournament this fall.

Practice officially started Monday, but the Eagles participated in the Central College team camp over the weekend, and Evenhouse says the early returns are very promising.

Pella Christian will head to Ankeny Centennial for scrimmages each of the next two Saturdays before opening the season on August 26th at the Ames Invitational.