After some lineup tweaking during preseason, expect these girls to carry the team through America East play. The Bearcats, in dire need of an impact player, are hoping someone will rise to the occasion.

Katie Robertson (senior outside hitter) — Katie’s 2005 season was cut short by an ankle injury, until which point she had been averaging 1.87 kills per game. She has been off to a slow start, but expect her to have more of an impact in conference play.

Ashley Allen (sophomore right side hitter) — Head Coach Glenn Kiriyama has chosen to utilize Allen’s 6-foot-2 frame this year and has moved her from the setting position to hitting. Allen packs a powerful punch in the front row, which the Bearcats so desperately need.

Kathleen Schauer (junior outside hitter) — Schauer has really stepped up her level of play this year. Though she has always been a sound player, she’s been posting double-digit kills this year. She may not be the flashiest player on the court, but she knows how to produce.

Jacki Kane (junior middle hitter) — Kane is a force to be reckoned with at the net. She is arguably the best blocker in the conference and loves to slam down kills off of the short set. Watch out because when she’s on, she’s difficult to stop.

Megan Hoag (senior middle hitter) — If the game was on the line, Bearcats fans would want the ball in the hands of Hoag. This team captain can produce in all aspects of the game, ranking 25th in the nation with .55 service aces per game and registering double-digit kills in the past 11 matches.

Ashley Meffert (senior setter) — Binghamton’s all time leader in sets is entering her fourth year as a starter. With her superb setting, she carried the team to the America East title last year. Expect her to do it again, as she ranks fourth in the conference in assists.

Jaclyn Strader (sophomore libero) — This girl can fly. She has total disregard for her body and is just hungry to get digs up. Strader will anchor the back row and provide strong defense for the Bearcats.

Katherine Courage (sophomore defensive specialist) — Courage did not see much playing time last year, but this year Kiriyama is focusing on creating a strong back row. When combined with Strader, opponents will have trouble finding any holes on the court.