DATE: Thursday, September 11, 1997          TAG: 9709100221

SECTION: SUFFOLK SUN             PAGE: 12   EDITION: FINAL 

SOURCE: BY JAMES C. BLACK, STAFF WRITER 

                                            LENGTH:   76 lines

GREENBRIER CHRISTIAN REMAINS THE TEAM TO BEAT

Although Greenbrier Christian lost nine players in the offseason, the defending champion Gators should reign supreme in Tidewater Conference of Independent Schools boys volleyball.

Greenbrier, 17-0 last season, lost two players who were 6-foot-3 and one that was 6-8. Of the nine former players, some are graduates. Others simply chose not to continue volleyball. However, the performances of brothers Matt and John Backens may make the departures irrelevant.

``The Backens brothers can jump out of the building,'' said co-coach Gabe Vogel, whose team has gotten off to a 2-0 start. ``They are the main blockers and hitters so we have to rely on them.''

Another benefit for Greenbrier Christian is the fact that some conference foes have struggled to field teams.

Nansemond-Suffolk lost five expected returnees to other sports and will suit only eight players. Cape Henry dropped its program due to a lack of players.

The Gators' biggest challenge could come from Walsingham.

Here's a look at the teams:

CATHOLIC

Coach: Chris Hairston

Last year's record: 5-11 overall, 4-3 TCIS

Top returnees: Kenny Balbuena, Sr., 5-10, setter; Mark Love, Jr., 6-3, hitter/blocker; Alan Woods, Sr., 5-11, hitter; Brian Tamborello, 6-0 hitter

Top newcomers: Dion Deans, So., 6-0, hitter

Outlook: Hairston believes the veterans, strong passing and consistent ball control will make the Crusaders more competitive. The Crusaders are also hoping the quickness and eye-to-hand coordination of newcomer Dean will make a difference.

GREENBRIER CHRISTIAN

Coaches: Kevin Hammond, Gabe Vogel

Last year's record: 17-0 overall, 7-0 TCIS

Top returnees: Andy McGlothlin, Sr., 6-0, setter; Matt Backens, Sr., 5-11, hitter; John Backens, So., 6-0, hitter

Top newcomers: Jon Dorner, 8th grader, 6-2, hitter; J.B. Stovall, Jr., 6-1, blocker/hitter

Outlook: Hammond thinks the loss of depth and height will be offset by the Gators' athleticism.

NORFOLK COLLEGIATE

Coach: Olga O'Donnell

Last year's record: 5-12 overall, 2-5 TCIS

Top returnees: Chris Moring, Sr., 6-1, setter/hitter; Alan Roughton, So., 6-1, hitter; Tom Jillson, Sr., 6-3, hitter

Top newcomers: Patrick Edwards, So., 5-11, hitter; Brian Boland, Jr., 5-11, setter/hitter

Outlook: The Oaks hope the return of last year's all-conference duo of Moring and Jillson will lead to an improvement in the standings.

NORFOLK CHRISTIAN

Coach: Nancy Rook

Last year's record: 9-6 overall, 6-1 TCIS

Top returnees: Daniel Strickland, Sr., blocker

Top newcomers: Robert Adams, Jr., 5-10, hitter; Tim Anderson, Jr., 5-10, setter/hitter

Outlook: Rook believes the return of four seniors and quickness will make the Ambassadors top contenders this year.

NANSEMOND-SUFFOLK ACADEMY

Coach: Beverly Nuckles

Last year's record: 6-13 overall, 3-4 TCIS

Top returnees: Eric Baur, Jr., 6-3, setter/hitter; Hank Leber, Jr, 6-0, setter/hitter; Mason Hoggard, Sr, 5-8, hitter; Scott Lyle, Jr, 5-11 1/2, hitter

Outlook: Lack of depth will be a significance problem as the Saints only suit eight players. KEYWORDS: TCIS BOYS VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW

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