Heathwood Hall’s Carson Lunceford It’s not easy being new in town or taking over a girls’ high school volleyball team with a 2009 record of 2–14.

But for Ashley Berry, Heathwood Hall’s new coach, it’s been a pleasure.

“I’ve got a fun group of girls who are willing and eager to learn,” Berry said. “They absorb everything I’m trying to teach them at every practice."

Berry, an Indianaopolis, Ind. native who played and coached at Western Kentucky University, is new to the Columbia area and new to the tough opponents the Highlanders will be facing. But maybe that’s just as well.

“We get a little better every time we play, and that’s all I expect,” Berry said. “I feel really good about this season.”

Berry is counting on a great performance by freshman A’ja Wilson, who is 6’2” and “the most capable offensive player we have.”

“Asia can do everything we need,” she said. “Carson Lunsford, a senior, plays all the way around and is a very complete player.”

Setter Eliza Nixon is also a big force for the Highlanders. “She’s a great leader on the team and is improving a lot with every practice.”

The Highlanders have suffered losses to Pinewood Prep and Northwood Academy in early– season matchups, but notched wins over Wardlaw Academy and Wilson Hall.

“There are plenty of other teams who will be challenging us including Hammond and Cardinal Newman, cross–town rivals who I understand have excellent programs,” Berry said.