If giving a strong effort against a superior team is any measure of potential, then the Camden volleyball team has something to look forward to this season.
Last week the Bruins took on mighty Northeastern, a team returning its entire roster from a squad that went four rounds into the 2A playoffs last year, and hung tough with the Eagles, losing by a 3-1 score, but the clinching game four decided by just four points.
“Another successful season is anticipated,” said Camden coach Ralph Duncan, whose team went 8-6 in Four Rivers play and 13-9 overall last year. “With four returning starters and seven returning varsity players total, we have the knowledge and potential to have a good team.”
Seniors Allison Cuthrell and Emily Lundsford and juniors Erin Brackett and Erica Barnes are the returning starters. Seniors Danielle Tuss and Megan Mento and junior Shyanne Stone are the others who played on the varsity last year.
Depth will be provided by sophomore Kara Pipken, juniors Chelsea Martin and Julie Reed and seniors Katie Reed and Jordan Basnight.

Boys soccer

Coach: Chuck Leslie
Last year’s record: 15-5-2 overall, 12-2 Four Rivers Conference
Outlook: The Bruins are officially in a rebuilding mode after losing nine seniors from an outstanding team.
“This season is going to be a challenge because half of the team is composed of new athletes,” Duncan said. “We are searching to find our best combination of players and positions.”
The inexperience issue is compounded by the fact that Michael Dunn, the best returning player, is recovering from ACL surgery and will not be available until late September.
Leslie will build around striker Alex Rasch, midfielders Ryan Wuerker and Josh Rohde and Mack McCartney, who has been shifted from defense to keeper, and hope a host of new faces can rise to the challenge.
Bronson Watts got the Camden goal in a 4-1 loss to Currituck, the only game the Bruins had played prior to facing Edenton Tuesday night.