The North Carolina volleyball team may have several new faces this season, but that hasn’t changed how head coach Joe Sagula and his players approach the game.
After all, some of last year’s key players included transfers Nia Robinson and Meghan Neelon, along with first-year Mabrey Shaffmaster — who was named ACC Freshman of the Year. So integrating new pieces into the rotation is something Sagula has grown accustomed to.
“From day one we just started training everybody and said, ‘Let’s go compete in practice,’” Sagula said.
On Saturday afternoon, UNC’s adaptability and competitive fire was on display in a thrilling five-set exhibition match against High Point. The Tar Heels ultimately won, 3-2, after facing a 2-1 set deficit against the Panthers.
Here are the three main takeaways from the game:
Veteran transfer Charley Niego complements Shaffmaster
After playing against the Tar Heels in a Notre Dame uniform for four years, the graduate outside hitter Niego is bringing experience, durability and aggression to UNC’s attack.
Niego tallied a team-high 50 attacks to go with Shaffmaster’s 43. Last year, Robinson and Shaffmaster led the team in attacks and kills. With Robinson’s departure and Shaffmaster currently taking less swings due to a minor shoulder injury, Niego stepped up to provide offensive pressure.
“I’m really comfortable being one of the primary hitters just because I have a lot of experience playing college volleyball,” Niego said. “I’m just embracing that role on the team.”