New York University (NYU)

Season Outlook

It will be a year of transition for the New York University men's volleyball team, as the squad returns to the Eastern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (EIVA) Hay Division.

After a trying season in the tough EIVA Tait Division, this year's main goal is understood - win the Hay and return to the Tait.

"I believe that we can be stronger in ‘07 than in 06," said NYU head coach Jose Pina.  "The loss of experience at a couple of positions will hurt at the start of the season. But, the returning players and incoming freshmen are skilled enough to compensate for the loss of the seniors."

Coming off an overall record of 11-14, the Violets certainly have some work to do.  Though four seniors were lost to graduation, including the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Division III Player of the Year, Chris Schmidt, and starting setter Marc Horowitz, the Violets still return a roster replete with depth.  

Senior captain Macnair Sillick, a three-year starter, has already proven he can be counted on.  He led the 2006 squad in total kills (319) and kills per game average (3.71) last season, and will be heavily relied upon for his experience, power, and consistency.

Serving to balance Sillick's strength will be the finesse of fellow outside hitter Devin Zolnowski, a sophomore who has already had plenty of experience starting for NYU.  He led the team in service receptions, and his ball control will again play a crucial role in providing for a successful offense. 

"Devin had a wonderful pre-season," Pine revealed.  "If he can take that level of play into the 2007 season, he and Sillick will combine to be one of the top outside hitting combinations in the EIVA."

Half of the middle-offense returns, as junior middle blocker Jonathan Wintermeyer looks to follow in Schmidt's footsteps.  Wintermeyer now has two years of starting experience, and his .357 hitting percentage last season was second on the team.  He is expected to perform well both offensively and defensively for the Violets, as his hitting and blocking continues to improve.  His game will be another barometer of the team's success.

Senior Brian Vilven, junior Willy McFarland, and sophomores Ilan Goldstein, David Coll and Jordan Meisner also return to the Violets' roster. 

"We will need this group to step to the forefront and make some serious contributions," Pina offered.

Vilven, a middle blocker, returns for his second (and final) season at NYU after playing two seasons for the University of the Pacific.  He is expected to take over the middle hitting position vacated by 2006 Player of the Year Chris Schmidt.

"I believe that Brian is ready to step in and play at a level similar to that of Schmidt," Pina predicted. 

Several newcomers will have the opportunity to contribute in '07.  Setter Braden Fujikawa, outsides Mike Ferragonio and Joshua Kravitz, middle blocker Clayton Taibi, and opposites Eric Chakeen and Andrew Schall will all fight for playing time and the opportunity to help lead the Violets back to the top.

The Violets travel out west to open the season and will face top West Coast and Midwest competition in the season opening University of Santa Cruz Tournament before embarking on their EIVA Hay and EIVA Division III regular-season schedule.