Adrian Bascope is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Sequoia Charter for AZPreps365.com.

This volleyball season is underway, and the Sequoia Charter Stallions are looking to turn around their program.

Edward Allen said his team is on the right track and he believes he has a couple of solid hitters this season. The Sequoia coach has his eyes set on improvement.

The Stallions, who are new to the AIA, look to build off last season's four wins. The roster includes a diverse group of athletes ranging from freshmen to seniors. Among those standing out: Emma Rodriguez, Asiana Vasquez and Faith Grissom.

A freshman, Rodriguez plays outside hitter for both the varsity and junior-varsity teams. “Her skills have grown so much more since last year,” Allen said.

A sophomore, Vasquez is new to the sport, but she is catching on quickly. She's a defensive specialist and outside hitter. “Very coachable and eager to learn are her biggest strengths," Allen said.

A senior, Grissom is an outside hitter.

“She’s become a powerhouse… she is dangerous,'' Allen said. “She has grown so much in her skills. I’m sad she’s a senior, honestly, because I would love to have her for another year.”

Through integrity and accountability, Allen said Sequoia can reach its goals on and off the court. The Stallions will take on powerhouse schools such as Chandler Prep and San Tan charter schools that are known for volleyball, but they feel like they can compete.

To do so, however, Sequoia must play as one unit. “We have to learn to play as a team verses playing as individuals,” Allen said when asked about the team's biggest hurdle.

COVID-19 has limited the roster, giving Allen a rotation of only seven players. But this could create a tighter group, forcing players to trust each other.