DECATUR, Miss. — The start of the 2025 season marks history for East Central Community College, as the Warriors take the court for their first-ever volleyball campaign.

Head coach Patrick Hiltz said the opportunity to build the program from the ground up is a rare privilege.
"It is an incredible honor to lead the first-ever team," Hiltz said. "It's something every coach wants the opportunity to do. Opening a brand-new gym that will be volleyball-only makes this even more special. These two things are considered gold, and I am very honored and excited."

Hiltz said sophomore leadership has already played a key role in guiding a roster otherwise filled with freshmen. Ainslee Copeland was named captain, and she and fellow sophomore Riley Tosseng have set the tone early.
"I told my wife that I am grateful for the two sophomores we have," Hiltz said. "Their leadership has been very helpful. The freshmen have really good shoulders to lean on for experience."

Among the newcomers to watch are Addison Vaughn in the middle, Cecilia Hikari-Hosaka, Emily Truan, and Landry Franks. Hiltz also pointed to setter Anna Wojtczak as a difference-maker.
"She may not stand out right away, but she's very good at what she does," Hiltz said. "Her position is like the center in football — it doesn't get much credit, but everything runs through her. Our fans need to pay attention to her sets."

Hiltz said the Warriors' youth will bring both challenges and opportunities.
"Our youth will be a challenge early on," he said. "But it will also be a strength because of the energy and excitement they bring."

As the Warriors begin their first season, Hiltz's main priority is establishing the foundation of the program.
"The biggest goal is to set a foundation and establish a culture," Hiltz said. "This is the expectation of playing ECCC volleyball. We must be humble but hungry and represent Decatur and the school the right way."