With the volleyball season packed away for the winter, the Zephyr girls look to build on the positives they displayed this year.

Coming into the year, head coach Robert Gardner defined them as scrappy. Although outsized, and short on varsity experience, they put that label to use, winning seven games in a tough conference that boasts some powerhouse teams.

That effort landed them a bit short, missing the playoffs for the first time in four years. However, the team made some strides and Gardner said it was a group that relied on grit to bang out those wins.

"The team this year was a team that never gave up," said Gardner. "The girls played to the last point of every game."

They battled through adversity in a number of matches, rebounding from two games down against Northampton Area High School in early September that underscored that "scrappy" moniker.

While young, the team was able to lean on a number of players, notably senior setter Lindsey Hutterer who guided them through the schedule, making them competitive in every match.

Hutterer was the anchor of the team, and her departure will be greatly missed as will the talents of seniors Brook Mellinger (middle hitter), Kelsey Himmelwright and Rachel Harry (defensive specialists).

"We will miss all our seniors," said Gardner.

Gardner said he saw improvement, showing glimpses of what's in store for the future. They have a number of players returning, many of whom logged a ton of varsity minutes this year.

Juniors Olivia Bobyak and Madison Scarfaro provide the Zephs with experience along the front line and should help them stabilize a returning squad that will still be a tad raw.

Bobyak displayed her scoring prowess this year, leading the team in kills. She is also rock solid on defense, a player who can stifle a rally with a crucial block. Scarfaro has emerged as a player who can put it down with authority, gaining confidence with each passing game this season.

Both players will form the foundation on which the Zephs can battle for a playoff spot.

Other plays whose imprint will be felt include outside hitters Tanesia Rehrig, Crystal Hernandez, as well as Elizabeth Lynch, Marla Shaffer, Korin Koehler, Charlotte Connors and Autumn Puello.

"We will have more experience, and should do well," said Gardner.

He also expects the return of players who missed time with injuries this year, including Rebecca Lutterschmidt and Anna Galina.

"We expect them to come back healthy and ready make big contributions this year," said Gardner.