With five returning players, Auburn is looking to defend its Three Rivers District Volleyball Title, as the Eagles enter the upcoming season.

The Eagles, who won the TRD district and tournament titles last season, return seniors Jordan Link (85 kills, 26 aces), Brandi Van Curen (96 digs), Katie Hudak (130 kills, 38 aces), along with sophomores Jordan Watson (251 kills, 35 aces, 129 digs) and Olivia Cleary.

Looking for some playing time this fall are newcomers to the varsity program, sophomores Kelly Akers, Hannah Paredes, Breanna Nichols and Laren Altizer.

"The girls seem to get along very well and have chemistry," said coach Sherry Millirons, who starts her 16th season at Auburn. "We are very young and inexperienced as far as our weaknesses go.

Auburn opens its 2010 campaign next Tuesday night, Aug. 24, when they host Blacksburg. The JV game starts at 6 p.m., followed by the varsity contest.