How do they play?
This year’s team features both young talent and some familiar faces, but what stands out most among this year’s UNC squad is power. In the team’s preseason scrimmage on Aug. 20, sophomore Madison Laufenberg and first-year Julia Scoles showed off their strength at the net, while redshirt sophomore Taylor Leath demonstrated a veteran presence and quietly dominated in digs. Even with the losses of All-ACC superstars Paige Neuenfeldt and Victoria McPherson, Coach Joe Sagula said this was one of the most powerful teams he’s coached in his 25 years at North Carolina
Who stands out?
Taylor Treacy, redshirt senior opposite hitter: Along with her senior teammates, Treacy will provide a solid veteran presence for a UNC team full of young talent. Treacy, who was All-ACC First Team and AVCA All-America Honorable Mention in 2015, will be pivotal on and off the court.
Madison Laufenberg, sophomore outside hitter: During the scrimmage, Laufenberg dominated the net through both blocks and kills, flashing the Tar Heel power Sagula admired. A continuation of this explosiveness would be crucial to UNC’s success.
Taylor Fricano, redshirt junior middle hitter: Sagula said he moved Fricano to the middle position — where Neuenfeldt and McPherson once played. As the team works to replace its heralded middle block, Fricano will prove vital in maintaining a dominant formation.
When is their biggest game?
As the three-time ACC preseason favorites, the Tar Heels will have the chance to prove their spot as the top dogs in the conference on Oct. 7 against Florida State. The Seminoles came in at No. 2 in the preseason poll, with 182 votes to UNC’s 194.
