It's probably not just a coincidence that Baker University's volleyball program has done a 180-degree turnaround since Jessica Walters put on a Wildcat uniform.
Since Baker head coach Kathy Allen recruited Walters to the program last year, Baker's volleyball team has turned into a winner. In fact, two years after a single-digit win season, Baker has already compiled an 8-3 record in 1999.
At least part of the credit could go to Walters, who has emerged as one of the finest hitters in the NAIA.
"Jessica is quite possibly one of the best overall athletes I've ever coached," Allen said of Walters, a 5-10 senior outside hitter from Salina. "She's truly one of the most talented, dedicated, hard-working athletes I've ever seen. She does things that you just can't teach."
The leading hitter in the NAIA last season, Walters has not missed a beat. Last week, Walters averaged 4.5 kills per game and a 33.9 kill percentage in addition to 11 blocks, 72 digs and eight service aces to earn Heart of America Athletic Conference player of the week honors.
"I'm really excited about this season because we have so much potential," said Walters, who transferred to Baker from Cloud County Community College. "I don't feel quite the pressure I did last season because we have so much more depth and people to pick up the slack."
After missing all-American honors last season, in part because of her team's sub.-500 record, Allen said that a winning Baker record would almost certainly earn Walters recognition.
"I was little upset when we figured out I didn't receive that because of our team's record, but it's not a real big deal," Walters said. "I care a lot more about seeing our team do well."
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