FLEMING ISLAND - Fleming Island High volleyball coach Amy Walker was almost giddy talking about the future for her Lady Golden Eagles volleyball team as she surveyed the net-high front lineup of her 2017 squad.

"Volleyball is going to plenty of fun the next couple of years here," said Walker, who fell in the district 2-8A semifinals last year in somewhat disappointing fashion. "I look for athleticism first then basic ball skills. Most girls here have been playing on clubs for a while so we will see."

Losing top hitter Ally Smith to graduation last year and outside hitter Drew Davidow, Walker has senior Kaci Hollenbacher at 5'-9" on one side and senior Emily Charbonneau, also at 5'-9" at the other side to protect the net with junior Jillian Jackson at 5'-11" adding to the mix with basketball ace Rayna Durden at 5'-11" all providing cover to the back line.

"They are all athletic players with enthusiasm to compete," said Walker.

Senior libero Lauryn Bates adds experience on the back line for extra defense and offensive set ups. Walker has three transfers from Puerto Rico trying for the team with Jasmine Robinson, ast 5'-10" another newcomer looking for a spot in the rotation at the net.

In the always tough district 4-8A lineup with district runnerup Creekside, district champion Bartram Trail, Buchholz and a revitalized Oakleaf High team under coach Jennifer Parrett, Walker would like to see the playoffs this year.

As a matter of stats, the top three of district 4-8A; Creekside, Bartram Trail and Fleming Island had a combined won/loss record of 54-20.