White and Gotham have been strong points for CMU up the middle
Volleyball has seen a plethora of contributions and timely plays on both sides of the ball, coming from a unique group of newcomers and veterans.
This team, in 12 matches to begin the season, has fought its way to a .500 record (6-6).
Throughout it all, CMU’s roster has remained strong and motivated. Among this group of players are sophomore Angie White and senior Danielle Gotham.
These middle blockers developing good chemistry leading into the team’s first Mid-American Conference match against Toledo on Friday. The two of them have combined to make a solid combination up the middle, scooping up every ball they can get their hands on, and giving it their all every time they step onto the court.
"It's been awesome being on the court at the same time," White said. "It's good to play next to someone who has been around for a long time and can put you in check when you need it."
Every available opportunity for a kill, both White and Gotham have kept the Chippewas in some matches this season. Gotham contributed with double-digit kills twice during the Hofstra Invitational, repeating this feat against Villanova and Robert Morris University.
White has also shown that, even at a young age, she can compete with some of the best collegiate volleyball players in the nation. In her freshman season, she earned All-MAC Freshman Accolades and also led the team in total blocks with 88.
"It was my job to take (White) under my wing as a middle (blocker) and help her as much as I could," Gotham said. "Throughout last season and this season, it's been really fun watching her grow as an athlete."
Head coach Erik Olson has seen them play together, and through 12 matches this season, he likes what he sees from his pair of blockers.
"White has been very good," Olson said. "She's ranked number 10 in the conference in hitting percentage and I think that number has a chance to climb. Gotham has been out of her comfort zone for three weeks. She's a very good blocker and she's very good in terms of transitioning and scoring points for us."
The two of them are preparing for a tough test this weekend against the Rockets. Having played a dozen matches this season, a good relationship has formed and they'll need to be on their toes with the MAC season starting.
