Wiard Readies Up Lady Vikes For Pre-Season

With four weeks of practice, a pre-season clinic, and a 1-1 record, coach Polly Wiard has the Mills varsity volleyball team prepared for the regular season.

Head Coach Polly Wiard held expansive pre-season practices due to the number of girls showing up for a shot to make the cut.

Wiard has coached every sport for more than 32 years, with the exception of tennis and gymnastics. She's been head coach of the varsity team for the last 10 years. "Volleyball has changed so much with rally scoring, we have to be more defensive and be on our toes," said Wiard.

"She's great," said senior outside hitter Kristen Chin, 17. "She pushes us hard and tells us what we're doing wrong. She knows our limits and pushes us until we get there."

Chin, a four-year varsity veteran, saw her game improve the most in her freshman year, coming out of San Francisco Juniors Volleyball Club to transition into high school. "Just seeing the level of focus here made the difference," said Chin.

One of the things that makes this team unique is the girls' spirit. "We might not always come out on top, but we never quit," said Wiard.

The Lady Vikings' coach has a particular drill in which she serves the ball past the net from the sideline a second after a point is scored - causing her players to hustle to the ball before it hits the floor.

"I really hate it when she does that, but I know it makes my game better and I'm thankful for it," said Chin.

While other players share this sentiment, coach knows the results once the season comes around.

"If they complain, I tell them to try harder and keep working," said Wiard.

This year's varsity squad has only been together for less than a month, yet the players and coach already notice the team meshing into form.

"The team bonding and the energy in the gym is great," said senior libero Karen Chiu, 17. "We have more players trying out this year and we feel comfortable with one another."

Chiu was an honorable mention recipient of the Peninsula Athletic League's Bay Division as a junior and Wiard considers her a versatile athlete and not just a defensive specialist.

Chin was a first team selection in PAL this past season. Wiard attributes this to her strength and energy on the court. "When she was a freshman, from the minute she started playing, I thought, I'm gonna take that one."

The Lady Vikings look to establish one of their strongest front rows in recent years and hope to have a strong end to their season.

"I ask my players to be here everyday, commit to this program, and think of the team before themselves," said Wiard. "Personally as a coach, if I can get that kid that usually will sit on the bench at any other school, and I can make her a starter, then I feel I've done my job as a coach."