There is an awful lot of change coming to area volleyball in 2024.
There will be five new coaches to varsity volleyball, two replacing legends in Venice and DeSoto County. Another will coach varsity for the first time after not having a varsity team in 2023 (Imagine) and another is returning to the bench after coaching college for 15 years (Babcock Ranch).
There are also high expectations for all area teams, with Charlotte, Port Charlotte, Venice and Lemon Bay among the teams expecting deep runs in 2024.
Watch out for DeSoto and North Port. They overachieved last season with young teams and could surprise this season.
Imagine will play as a Class 2A school while Babcock has found a home in 1A after being independent for two years.
BABCOCK
Coach: Daniel Mahy (first season)
2023 Record: 14-7
Key returnees: Lillian Ciccarello, Penelope Noel
Outlook: This is going to be a very young team since the team also incorporates middle schoolers. Thankfully, the Trailblazers will have a coach who can get them in the right direction. They have bought into the new coach, but a tougher schedule and their youth could mean this team will take its lumps.