The RoundHouse | 8/7/2019 9:35:00 AM

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Wichita State volleyball associate head coach Sean Carter sets up Thursday's opening of practice. The Shockers (14-18 last season, 8-10 American Athletic Conference) return middle Emma Wright and outside hitter Megan Taflinger, who are joined by 11 newcomers.
 
The Shockers play Kansas in an exhibition game at 3 p.m. on August 17 at Koch Arena. The season begins at the Penn State Classic on Aug. 30.
 
Carter on changes over the spring and summer:
 
"Obviously, we didn't have the year we've come to expect. We're all motivated, especially the coaching staff, to take responsibility for that. They've been extremely hard working, willing to do all the things that we as coaches would ask them to do. I think we have all the components of having a good year."
 
Carter on middle blocker Emma Wright:
 
"Emma, every year since she's been here, has matured and decided to almost buy in at a little bit higher level. We get the 20 hours a week with our kids, but if you really want to be great there's probably some other things outside of that time period or some life choices you have to make to make yourself really good and I think she's done that. She's taken her fitness really seriously."
 
Carter on Indiana State transfer Damadj Johnson:
 
"I'm very excited to have her. I can tell already she may be the one we look to as far as our attitude and toughness. She will do whatever she needs to do to get this group of girls wherever they need to go. She's going to bring an attitude and toughness, just because of her innate personality, that I don't think we have seen on this team for a while. That's exactly what I think we need right now."
 
Carter on the exhibition vs. Kansas:
 
"It was a total no-brainer for both of us. We both have some things we obviously would like to learn about our teams. If we get a great turnout, maybe we can talk each other into doing a yearly deal where it is on the record and it is the start of something. I think it would be great for the community and I think it would be great for growing volleyball with the state. Everybody likes KU-Shockers."