When she took over three years ago, Whitehall head coach Cristal Fernandez wanted to build a foundation for the program. She understood that it would take time.

Early into this season, Fernandez is beginning to see some sturdiness despite Zephyrs dropping the first two matches to Emmaus (3-0) and Parkland (3-1).

“With only six games into the season, I can definitely say we’re at a better spot than we were in past years,” said Fernandez. “With a veteran core and young talent stepping into key roles, this team is slowly finding its rhythm and showing promise.”

Having a program that won 10 games overall in the past two years, Fernandez expects some peaks and valleys. “Of course, there are some learning curves and growing pains to overcome as the girls continue to mesh,” added Fernandez. “But our main focus as a coaching staff is to help our players push through adversity and the mental challenges that come with mistakes in the game. The foundation is solid, and this team isn’t done growing.”

Fernandez will look to seniors outside hitter Allison Keck and libero Jenna Conrad and junior outside hitter LaSereon James to anchor the team.

“Allison Keck brings a ton of varsity experience and leadership, and Jenna Conrad, formerly a setter, has transitioned into the libero role, a move that’s allowed the team to calmly stay in system during long rallies.

“LaSereon James is a high-energy outside hitter whose presence on the court is undeniable. With these three young women leading the team, it really has helped the transition for our younger players.”

Fernandez also will look to newcomers junior setter Yara Atiyeh and sophomore setter-blocker Makenna Reichenbach to continue to make the transition.

Yara Atiyeh has the hunger to improve and eagerness to learn have quickly made her a key piece of the offense,” said Fernandez. “Makenna Reichenbach is a dual-threat setter and aggressive blocker whose athleticism is already turning heads.”

Fernandez, a 2016 Zephyr alum who later starred at DeSales University, has enjoyed the experience returning home.

“It’s truly an awesome feeling to be back at the place that helped shape me into the woman I am today,” beamed Fernandez. “Last season we finished 6–14, which was progress from our first year as a coaching staff.”

Fernandez anticipates her team to rise to another level this season, seeing progress in spite of two defeats.

“This year, we’re focused on going even further — not just in wins, but in earning our place within the competitive EPC (East Penn Conference),” stressed Fernandez. “Our goal is to no longer be seen as an easy win. We may not have a check in the “win box,” but the girls competed with a well-established program like Emmaus and Parkland. That’s a win in my book, and a sign of what’s to come.”