A-R-C releases volleyball preseason coaches’ poll

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa -- The Simpson volleyball team has been selected ninth in the American Rivers Conference Preseason Coaches' Poll, announced by the league office Wednesday.

Lana Smith begins her 21st year as the head coach of the Storm in 2019 and has amassed 335 career victories in her time on the sideline. Simpson finished last season 9-18 and 2-6 in conference.

The Storm look to improve this year as four starters return, including All-A-R-C Honorable Mention middle hitter Hannah Lester. Lester finished sixth in the conference with a .241 hitting percentage. Setter Alyssa Mathews is back as well after tallying 903 assists last year.

Simpson opens its 2019 campaign on the road against Rockford on Aug. 30 at the Illinois College Invite in Jacksonville, Ill. The Storm play their first contest inside Cowles Fieldhouse on Sept. 24 against Luther.

2019 American Rivers Conference Volleyball Preseason Coaches' Poll
1. Dubuque (24-9, 6-2)
2. Wartburg (18-12, 7-1)
3. Coe (20-11. 5-3)
4. Luther (15-17, 5-3)
5. Loras (19-10, 4-4)
6. Central (12-19, 1-7)
t-7. Buena Vista (13-12, 4-4)
t-7. Nebraska Wesleyan (9-16, 2-6)
9. Simpson (8-19, 2-6)