New coach looking to lead Bowie volleyball to new heights

After a disappointing season last year, the Bowie volleyball program is ready to “bear” down this season with the help of new head coach Lourdes Balderrama.

“Its a completely different ball game. Bowie volleyball is totally different. We are changing!” said Balderrama.

After suffering a 6 and 23 season last year something had to change.

“They were very upset and they were very frustrated because they knew that they had talent,” she said of her players.

But last year’s disappointment hasn’t stopped Bowie from expecting great things in 2017.

“Last year was a bummer, but I think this year we have something different,” senior libero Melissa Martinez said.

Hard work is the foundation of the program. Keeping with that tradition, Lourdes has instituted two-a-day practices.

“Last year was a lot different from this year. I think we are putting in a lot more work this summer and right now,” said Martinez. “[Coach] likes to push us, she likes to keep us going, she likes to tell us positive things and help us individually.”

Balderrama says that in order for the team to succeed, they will have to combine that hard work with the fundamentals of the game.

“They are hard workers, they persevere, they get here, they do their jobs, they’re athletes, but they didn’t have that fundamental core,” said Balderrama.

So far it appears the team has responded to Balderrama’s training and special brand of tough love.

“I love her. She’s the nicest coach, but she is also the meanest coach out there,” said junior setter Lourdes Chico. “She pushes us hard no matter what!”