The varsity team will open its season tonight at 7 p.m. with a home game against cross-town rival, Melbourne High School. Coach Bonnie Priester said the team has been working hard in preparation for improving on last season’s 13-7 record.

“This game looks to be very competitive and exciting,” she said. “We also look forward to competitions against district rivals Cocoa Beach, Satellite and Edgewood.”

For the first time, the team is competing in two tournaments.

“Last year, we achieved many firsts for the program, but that was just the beginning,” Priester said. “Last year, we won our first-round quarterfinal match in the district tournament. This year, we hope to play in the championship match and make it to the regional playoffs.”

The team returns nine players and welcomes four newcomers.

“We lost a couple of volleyball players from last year, but I think we’re going to come back even stronger than ever,” junior Hannah Krasny said.

Freshman Casey Schauman said she is excited for the kick-off game Monday because of the number of people planning to attend.

“Come out and support,” she said.