 "Photo: Joe Rehana")
On a team loaded with upperclassmen and experience, freshman Lauren Blumhorst has managed to find a spot in the regular rotation for the SIU volleyball team.
Blumhorst, a defensive specialist who led Maroa-Forsyth High School to a third-place finish in state one year ago, has found a way to consistently contribute on the next level under the tutelage of senior libero Kristy Elswick.
"She's like my hero," Blumhorst said of SIU's all-time digs leader. "She always helps me out and gives me tips on digging and passing. She's taught me basically everything."
Blumhorst has played in 60 of the Salukis' 77 sets this season, by far the most of any freshman. She is sixth on the team with nine service aces and holds a .944 serving percentage, which ranks second on the team with a minimum of 150 attempts.
Elswick said she sees a younger version of herself in Blumhorst.
"As a freshman coming in, she brings a lot of energy," Elswick said. "She kind of reminds me of myself when I was her age. She plays very mature on the court. She's always here early for practice, and she works hard."
Elswick said she's tried to help Blumhorst make the transition to the college level by deflecting coaches' criticisms with words of encouragement.
Like Elswick, Blumhorst has focused on her receiving game.
The freshman has made just four errors on 110 receiving attempts this season. She's also fifth on the team with 109 digs for a 1.82 average per set.
Coach Brenda Winkeler said Blumhorst is one of the hardest workers on the team.
"She comes in early every day," Winkeler said. "She's very coachable and wants to do well. She's really worked on her serve and asks a lot of questions. She's a kid that wants to learn."
Saluki maroon runs in the blood of the Blumhorst family. Her father Mike was a four-year letterman on the SIU baseball team from 1981-1984. Her mother Pam was also a graduate of SIU.
With the upcoming graduation of Elswick, Blumhorst has the chance to become the first starting libero other than Elswick since 2004.
But that position won't come easy for the freshman standout.
"Me, (junior defensive specialist) Caitlin Dugger and (junior defensive specialist) Mandy (Stamper) will have to fight it out, but that would be a great opportunity," Blumhorst said.
Blumhorst will have the opportunity to continue her contributions to the team when Northern Iowa comes to SIU Friday, followed by Bradley's visit to Davies Gymnasium Saturday. Both matches are set to begin at 7 p.m.
Stile Smith can be reached at 536-3311 ext. 282 or sts34@siu.edu.
