HANOVER

Coach: Hunter Gosselin (1)

Last year: 6-9, lost in first round to ConVal.

League: NHIAA Division II.

Returners: Seniors — Rosa Bradley (OPP), Annika Lackstrom (MB), Ada Callaway (MB). Juniors — Laura Schaner (S), Dylan Simpkins (OH).

Newcomers: Senior — Tara Marshall (DS). Juniors — Brealyn Pearl (L), Mackenzie Loughman (DS). Sophomores — Elin Molina (OH), Claire Starosta (OH), Kate Wehmeyer (L), Rachel Kohl (OPP).

Outlook: It’s a relatively new-look Bears squad this fall under a new coaching staff, and even some of the returners are playing new positions. Seven seniors have departed from last year’s Hanover team.

“We are still working on getting to know our players and our team’s strengths and weaknesses,” Gosselin said. “It will be interesting to see how on-court chemistry develops throughout the season. No matter where I have switched them around on the court, they each have stepped up for the challenge.”

HARTFORD

Coach: Megan Geiselhart (1)

Last year: Club team only; this is the program’s first varsity season.

League: VPA Division I.

Roster: Senior — Alaina Laplante. Juniors — Felicity Adams, Alex Braley, Melodie Dansereau, Lillian Parker, Norah Wood. Sophomores — Isabella Trombley, Charlotte Winn.

Outlook: After just one season as a club-only program, the Hurricanes will compete as a full VPA member with a full schedule.

“We have a solid group of athletes who are working positively as a team and cultivating a growth mindset culture,” said Geiselhart, who is taking over as head coach for Carlin Martinez. “The athletes made this team sport of volleyball happen with the support of families and the school district.”

By Benjamin Rosenberg