Looking to improve on last year's second place finish in the Mountain Empire District, Bland County is relying on six returning players to provide the leadership this volleyball season.

Returning to the Bears program this fall are seniors Kellie Morris, Cali Lewis and Hannah Cox. along with juniors Alison Morgan, Jessie Blessing and Grace Sarver.

Newcomers to the program include juniors Holly Williams and Whitney Puckett, as well as sophomore Julia Davis.

Bland County opens its season on Tuesday, Aug. 24, when they play Richlands at Rocky Gap.