With six returning seniors and a new coach, the Lord Botetourt volleyball team is looking to defend its Blue Ridge District crown this season.

Taking over the program in Daleville is Julie Akers, whose sister, Sherry Millirons, coaches the highly successful Auburn volleyball program.

Returning for the Cavaliers are seniors Meaghan Catron (OH), Allyssa King (OH), Erin Lee (L), Rachel Parker (S), Carrie Heldreth (MB) and Brooke Fuhrey (MB).

New to the varsity squad will be junior Ciara Benz (DS), along with sophomores Courtney Baker (OH), Elizabeth Kennedy (OH), Michelle Kembel (RS) and McKinley Saunders (MB/RS).

Akers sees her team strengths as being an experienced senior class, while consistency is a weakness.

Lord Botetourt sees its matches with James River, Auburn, Northside and William Byrd as being the top games this season.

"We hope to be competitive through our non-district and district schedule," said Akers.

The Cavaliers open their season at James River on Wednesday, Aug. 22.