This 2006 volleyball season was filled with disappointments for the University of Arizona.
The Wildcats failed to qualify for the NCAA tournament for the first time since 1995. They finished under .500 (13-17) for the first time since 1992. They went 4-14 in the Pac-10.
But 15-year coach David Rubio says he found the season gratifying nonetheless.
"It was a very positive, worthwhile coaching experience, though losing is always hard," he said.
The UA closed the season winning three of its last five matches, including a 3-2 upset of then-No. 24 Oregon.
"We knew if we gave up then, we'd give up on next year," said junior middle hitter Dominique Lamb, who was an all-Pac-10 honorable mention. "We knew we could get a jump-start on next season."
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Next season holds a lot of promise. Arizona loses one starter — senior setter Stephanie Butkus. Rubio is also hoping to bring back middle hitter Kristina Baum for a final season. Baum tore her ACL on Sept. 9 and missed the rest of the season. She is seeking a medical redshirt, which the Pac-10 will decide upon in March.
"She certainly gives us added depth, more experience and leadership," Rubio said.
Rubio and Bill Morgan, the UA's associate director of athletics, administrative services and compliance, said they have confidence Baum will get the hardship waiver because she appears to meet the criteria. Rubio said the guidelines indicate the athlete cannot compete in more than 20 percent of the team's days of competition. Baum played in seven of the UA's 30 matches, or 23 percent, but she played on five days of competition, for 17 percent, because she played four matches during two days.
"I think I will be getting my redshirt," Baum said. "I really took this year personally. It's not my fault I got hurt, but it will be my motivation for next year."
The UA mainly struggled with lack of experience. The starting lineup consisted of two freshmen, including Salpointe Catholic graduate Whitney Dosty, and three sophomores.
"It was a good opportunity for our young players to get experience in the conference," Rubio said. "You only get one type of year like this. All the players are excited to develop the team."
The UA will also gain three freshmen who could make significant contributions. Outside hitter Tiffany Owens of San Bernardino, Calif., setter Paige Weber of Indianapolis and 6-foot-4-inch middle blocker Stephanie Snow of Tempe have signed with the team. Rubio expects Weber to compete for the starting setter role with junior Amy Dyck, who set for the 2005 team that reached the Elite Eight.