With several returning players and a new coach, the Floyd County Lady Buffaloes are hoping to make some noise this season in the Three Rivers District volleyball race.

Taking over the volleyball program this year is Jonathan Marye.

Returning players for the Lady Buffs this season are seniors Victoria Connor, Emily Gruver, Gail Seidemann and Heather Underwood, along with juniors Monica Morris and Katelyn Vaughn.

New to varsity program are juniors Emily Muncy, Samantha Sunshine, Rina Van Blerk, Gretchen Whitlock and sophomore Bailey Long.

"We have several returning players, a deep bench, an excellent attitude and team unity," said Marye, when asked about the team's strengths this fall. He also noted that a "yet-devoloping versatility of all players."

The new coach went on to say, "I have never seen the competition in this district, but I am looking forward to the challenge that some of the more recently stronger teams may pose."

The Lady Buffaloes open thier 2010 season next Tuesday, Aug. 24, when they entertain Christiansburg. The JV game starts at 6 p.m., followed by the varsity contest.