East Grand Middle School’s volleyball squad rostered 40 seventh and eighth grade players this season. It also welcomed two new coaches, Casey Ruffin, and Katie Trail, and a returning part-time coach, Kayleen Malone.

The coaches say the squad has made big improvements in its abilities this season.

“It is so fun and rewarding to see the girls progress. Girls that were brand new to volleyball are now learning to successfully spike a ball, serve consistently, and are tracking the ball better and better every day,” Ruffin said.

Head coach Ruffin has implemented a whole team philosophy and the rosters are fluid based on availability, effort and ability. The flexibility allows coaches to move players where they are needed most, and it is proving to be an effective strategy because the team has an impressive record this season.

The A level is 9-1, the B level is 8-2, the C level is 5-4-1.

“We really believe it is important, especially at this age, for players to equally value each other, cheer for all successes and learn from all mistakes,” Ruffin stated in an email to Sky-Hi News. “All of them should be proud of what they have learned and how they have improved.”

The Cubs will finish their season with the A and B squads at the Meeker tournament Sept. 30.