Throughout the first 12 matches of the season, not much of the talk surrounding the Syracuse women’s volleyball team has been about its defense.

That talk has centered on the balanced offense in the team’s 12-0 start, a program-record opening to the season.

But to SU assistant coach Carol LaMarche, that balanced offense isn’t enough without an equally important — and maybe even more important — defensive unit.

‘You can’t have a successful offense without a good pass or dig,’ LaMarche said. ‘So if you look at our hitter’s hitting percentage and it’s high, you know that our defense is doing its job.’

Despite a young and inexperienced defense, the unit’s youth hasn’t been noticeable thus far. A steady counterattack and strong play from the defense has helped carry the Orange to its record-setting start to the season.

In her first year as the libero, a position that captains the defense, Ashley Williams has kept the backcourt steady while setting up the Orange’s hitters, racking up 101 digs this season.

‘It hasn’t been a major adjustment,’ Williams said. ‘It’s just that I’m getting used to being on the court all the time. We are (all) just adjusting to our new roles, and I think we’re on a good track.’

Sarah Hayes, Syracuse’s captain, is the only defensive player not in a new position this season, returning as SU’s right back. The team’s third defensive player, Zoe Guzman, is in her first season at middle back.

‘I feel like last year, we were kind of thrown around in positions,’ Hayes said. ‘This year, it’s been more set so that’s a lot easier for us because, then, we can focus on our one position we’ve been playing and grow in that position.’

And even though the young defense has gone through some growing pains, its play has provided steady support for SU’s balanced offense and led the team to its quick start.

‘No one gave us a bad surprise,’ LaMarche said. ‘Everyone’s kind of right where we expected them to be.’

That includes Williams, who has taken the place Shanetha McLaurin filled last season.

Williams has been successful in her first season as the libero. That is clear just by looking at the offensive performances throughout the Orange’s season.

The offense has had multiple players break out in various matches, including Noemie Lefebvre, Mindy Stanislovaitis and Hayley Todd.

And though the offense is responsible for the show they put on, some of its success must be traced to the defense. Especially to Williams, the leader in the back.

‘I think she is embracing the role,’ LaMarche said of Williams. ‘She really wants to be good at it and is one of those players that is very self-motivated. She pushes herself enough, which is good to have as a libero.

‘The libero kind of owns the backcourt and needs to be the captain back there to make sure everyone knows that she’s the one to get the ball if it’s her ball. She makes sure that everything is cohesive back there.’

But despite the defense’s role in the offense’s success, Williams isn’t ready to take credit for the team’s offensive outbursts.

‘Credit is given where it’s due,’ Williams said of the offense.

So for now, she’s fine with all the attention the offense receives. They deserve much of the credit for what they’ve done.

The defense will continue to do what it has done all season — set the offense up in the backcourt.

‘(Our defense is) more of a team defense, where everyone’s doing their part,’ Williams said. ‘In time, maybe that recognition will come. It will happen.’

rnmarcus@syr.edu

Published on September 13, 2010 at 12:00 pm

Contact Rachel: rnmarcus@syr.edu