Lightning Set To Strike in 2007

Following an encouraging season that included a 10-1 CUNYAC record and an inspiring run to the semifinal round of the 2006 CUNYAC Women’s Volleyball Tournament, the Lightning will head into the 2007 campaign with a sense of uncertainty. With the departures of top players such as Isabel Lorenzo and Yaniza DeLosSantos to graduation, first year Head Coach Daniel Skilins, also skipper of the Men’s Volleyball program, hopes that a fine combination of polished veterans and aspiring freshmen will mold the Lightning back into a contender for a CUNYAC title.

Skilins, who lead the Men’s Volleyball team to the CUNYAC playoffs earlier this season, will pair up with first year Assistant Coach Wilmy Dipre, a sensational four-year member of the men’s volleyball team from 2004-2007. Together, they will look to give women’s volleyball fans at Lehman something to cheer about.
The most recognizable name returning to the squad for the 2007 season will be Cardinal Spellman product Nicole Petralia. A season ago, Petralia competed in 22 of the Lightning’s 29 matches, recording 48 kills and 34 service aces. The 34 sevice aces were good for 5th best on the squad. In addition, senior Carry Em will also return for her final stint as a member of the Lightning. Last season, Em competed in 20 of the Lightning’s matches, recording an impressive 38 service aces, good for 4th best on the squad. Finally, Yohanna Sufram will also log on for her final season with the Lightning, as she hopes to make an immediate impact by contributing in all-ways possible. These seniors will be expected to bring experience and provide leadership for a relatively young squad.

Top freshmen expecting to play a pivotal role in the team’s success include Jillian Acevedo, Lakeisha Gordon, and Crissett Maxwell.

As the 2007 season approaches, it is no secret that the Lightning is in a rebuilding stage. However, with a pair of confident coaches, a handful of experienced seniors and a slew of hungry freshmen, Lehman is poised to make a return trip back to the CUNYAC Tournament and contend for a title this season.