Another season begins for the women’s volleyball team and as the crowds flock to each home game, hopes of a winning season fill the Terraceum. In the first match of the season on Sept. 10, Hawk fans came out to support the girls as they took on the Jackson Timberwolves. By the last buzzer, disappointment set in, with Jackson taking down the last three of the four games played that night. But no matter how unfortunate a loss, the women stay positive and encourage their teammates to play at the best of their abilities.
One particular player, who has stepped up her game as a major point contributor, is sophomore, Shawna Pung.
“[Shawna] is only 5’6” and she’s playing the huge middle.” Coach Marietta Snyder said of Pung. “She’s got 4 block kills. That’s big. Usually 6’3”-6’4” girls are the ones doing those.”
But Pung doesn’t let her height hurt her game and shows that being 5 foot, 6 inches is not a hindrance to her ability to kill as middle. Pung said, “I want to show the tall girls that I can beat them and they’re not better [because they’ve got a little height on me].” She accomplished just that during the first game, where the Hawks came out victorious with a close 25-23 win, Pung surprised even her team mates, by blocking hit after hit. “[Playing middle] is fun,” Pung said. “I like blocking. [Getting praise from the team is] really exciting and makes me want to work harder so I’m consistent and get more kills.”
Pung, who started playing volleyball in fourth grade, has had a lot of time to work on her game, and is said to have an amazing work ethic. Coach Marietta explained that, “The team really appreciates and likes her. She works hard, doesn’t screw around, and is totally focused.” Coach Marietta said. “And she’s only a sophomore!”
The affect of Pung, one of the youngest players on varsity, and her having a higher maturity is not lost on Coach Marietta or the team. “She has a great attitude. Never goofs around.” She said. “I love this team.” She laughs. “I don’t have to deal with a bunch of cattiness.”
The lack of cattiness can be credited to the amount of talent and the bonds of the team. “The seniors especially like [Shawna] and Leah Lechtenberg.”Leah, who was hurt at the beginning of the season was thought to be out for the duration, but will come back after training with help from Marietta. “[Leah] has worked really hard to get back into the game. The young girls have real dedication.”
Shawna acknowledges Lechtenberg as a positive contributor to the team. “All the seniors encourage me a lot. Leah too. Even though she can’t play right now, she keeps the team pumped up. She can see what you’re doing wrong, and help you out.”
Just as Lechtenberg brings dedication and determination, Pung brings a positive energy to the court that makes her stand out. When asked about what she thought of Pung, Senior Captain Stephanie McGee said, “When things get rough in a game, she stays positive. She has that kind of mindset where, if she makes a mistake she doesn’t get pissed off.” McGee said. “She lets it go and gets it the next time.”
Shawna is not the only Pung expected to do great things for MTHS Volleyball.
“Shawna has a little sister, [Sarah], on the freshman team.” said Coach Marietta. “I’m looking forward to [her] coming up and to watch her grow as a player.”
Much like the Seidlitz sisters (Kori & Kelsi), who played together in previous volleyball history, the team will see a new, possibly strong family duo; The Pungs.
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