The Fall 2 season that took place over the course of March and April earlier this year gave the Mid-Hudson Athletic League a look at the new Highland volleyball team.

Under the direction of head coach Colleen Giametta, in her first year as the team’s head coach, the Huskies won the Section 9 Class B championships, playing all their games in empty gymnasiums.

Now, the Huskies are looking to repeat the performance during a normal fall season as volleyball will be played during its normal time of year, with a full season restored to them.

The Mid Hudson Athletic League tournament, usually played at SUNY Ulster, also is expected to be restored this season.

Also restored are fans, as spectators weren’t allowed to watch indoor sports in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The spectators will return to the gymnasium this year, restoring the atmosphere, albeit they’re required to wear masks. The players also are required to wear masks on the court due to guidelines set down by Section 9, and a school mask mandate set down by Gov. Kathy Hochul.

The Huskies will enter the season down two departing seniors as Libero Adrianna Scala and middle hitter Dehana Stevens have both graduated.

However, the Huskies return plenty of experience. Setter Olivia Bell, a fifth-year varsity player will lead the team followed by four-year player, outside hitter Jessica Gentile.

Also returning, are seniors Gabby Keefe, juniors Katie Dauenheimer, junior Daniella Grant, and senior Sophie Canino, who is expected to take Scalo’s spot as libero.

Giametta also will look for contributions from outside hitter Christina Johnson and middle hitter Navya Ruparelia, both sophomores.

“Our goal is to return to the sectional postseason tournament with the chance to repeat and move further into regionals for the first time,” Giametta said.

Area rivals, Marlboro and Highland will meet each other twice this season. The first time is scheduled for

Sept. 21 and they will close the season against each other on Oct. 21.