With talent coming up from a 24-3 junior varsity team, first-year Ripon coach Casey Berry believes the Indians have the talent and depth to build on their successful 2021 campaign.
Berry was an assistant under former coach Chuck Sterni, helping Ripon reach the Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV semifinals and finish 22-11.
“All 14 of our girls I can trust to put on the court,” Berry said. “It’s just an awesome, fun and outgoing group of ladies who are making my job difficult to figure out who I want out there. First game out, we’re going out there with returners and hopefully we can build that chemistry with a freshman and a couple of juniors who are new to the team.”
Ripon had few graduation losses but they were big ones — middle blocker Sierra Barrios and libero Bella Chapin, both All-Trans-Valley League selections.
All-league outside hitter Danika Matuska and fellow senior middle Makenzie Loechler return and are team captains. They’re two of the five seniors on the team.
“Danika has grown so much from last season to the beginning of this season and I’m excited to see her play,” Berry said.
Senior middle/opposite Taryn Escola and junior right-side hitter/middle Katherine Eskes are among the varsity newcomers who will provide depth in the front row. Junior Kailee Inderbitzin is a six-rotation player whom Berry expects to contribute all-around.
Ripon returns both of its setters in all-league selection Reagan Wilkerson and Kaya Whitaker, who made honorable mention. Both are juniors. The Indians have a third setter in freshman Adriana Dorn, who will also see time at right-side hitter.
Sophomore Emeri Lane is looking to fill Chapin’s big shoes in the back row. Junior Allie Camara is another key defensive specialist.
“It’s definitely hard to replace an amazing player like Bella,” Berry said. “I got to work with her real closely, because defense is my specialty. We now have a sophomore who we’re super excited about. She has been working really hard throughout open gyms and throughout the summer. She’s ready to step into that role and is eager to be there for her team.”
Ripon is challenging itself early in the season as it prepares for rival Escalon, the reigning Sac-Joaquin Section Division IV champion, in TVL play. Next week, the Indians play in the High Sierra Tournament in Reno.
“Playing different teams allows the girls to grow,” Berry said. “We wanted to see other teams, and we’re super excited for the High Sierra Tournament. It’s a team-bonding experience for them.”
Berry is a Tracy High graduate who played for Carroll College in Montana. She began coaching in Montana before returning to California. She coached for Rage Volleyball Club for two years and served as Ripon JV coach for one.
Berry is assisted by 2018 Ripon grad Janessa Inderbitzin, who led the JV team last season.
“I think (the transition) has been super easy,” Berry said. “The girls make it so easy, they’re a super coachable, great group of girls.”
