The Marietta College volleyball team, entering its second year with head coach Ray Costa, will work to continue its early-season good fortunes but also translate that momentum into more success on the court during Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) play in 2008. “I am excited about this upcoming year because all of the hard work that our returning players put in during the off-season,” Costa said. “Their dedication has created a strong foundation for us. With an enthusiastic group of newcomers joining them, I believe we have a tremendous opportunity to build off last year’s success.” The Pioneers return nine players, including five letter winners and four seniors, from their squad that finished 12-15 and eighth in the OAC a year ago. Marietta will need to replace the loss of five seniors, including Marissa Barnhart and Casey Davis, who finished their careers ranked among the team’s top-five all-time in total blocks and digs, respectively.