With the beginning of women’s beach volleyball around the corner, there is excitement and optimism in the air from Coach Autumn Erickson and the Beach Bears. 

The season will begin with Shoal’s Beach Bash on Feb. 26-27 where the Bears face Huntingdon, North Alabama and Hendrix in Florence, Alabama. 

“We remain optimistic about the spring. It will be challenging to navigate travel and competition due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but we are focusing on what we can control one day at a time,” Erickson said. 

With the ups and downs that COVID-19 has brought, the team bonded and grew stronger from each obstacle. “I think we have grown closer over the past year, so I’m eager to see our chemistry shine,” Erickson said.  

However, things will look a little different than seasons in the past. There will be a lot less interaction with spectators, fans and families that attend the matches. Additionally, less playing time for the Bears could be possible, “I hope we get to play our full schedule, but cancellations are inevitable,” Erikson said. 

Although delays are potentially in the Beach Bears’ future, the off season was rather eventful and successful. “We were fortunate to train full-time during our off season in the fall. The players have worked hard to stay in shape over the break,” Erickson said. 

The players have been preparing and should be ready to play this season. “We are starting to find our groove in the sand,” Erickson said. 

Out of all the games this season, Erickson is looking forward to the home tournament the most because she will have the opportunity to celebrate and recognize the seniors for all their hard work. “It will be bittersweet honoring the seniors. I have coached them since they were Freshman, and they are great ambassadors for the program and university. They will be missed,” Erickson said. 

As for this season, Erikson is looking forward to it and has a few simple goals; “for everyone to stay healthy, play our whole schedule and exit the Southland Conference as champions.”