It’s a whole new squad.

The Riverland Community College volleyball team has just two returnees from last year’s team, but it hasn’t dampened the hopes of head coach Helen Jahr, who is back for her 16th year with RCC.

The Blue Devils bring back setter Krissy Schemmel of Mankato West and outside hitter Kate Krogh of Medford. They will go to a crop of seven freshman to fill out the rest of their team.

“There’s no real stars, I think they’re all talented in their own way. I look for big things from this team and if we start fine tuning and put the ball where it needs to be, we’ll be fine,” Jahr said. “We’re dynamic in a different way than any other team I’ve had. We’re strong at every position and I don’t have to hide weaknesses. Usually I have to hide a weakness or two.”

The Blue Devils may have suffered a setback Monday when Schemmel went down with a knee injury at the end of a scrimmage with the Austin High School volleyball team. But Jahr thinks the setter will be fine.

“I think she’ll be all right. She’s tough and she’s stubborn,” Jahr said. “She is the boss for us. She’s a big help on and off the court and she knows exactly what should be going on.”

Up front, the Blue Devils will look to Kelsey Brink, a 5-foot, nine-inch hitter from Renville, Minn. and Danyel Hythecker, a 5-9 middle hitter from Kasson/Mantorville. Abbie Curry, a 5-7 middle hitter from St. James, Minn. could also be a strong contributor.

“I’m excited. We’re smaller than we usually are, but we’re quick and fast,” Jahr said.

The Blue Devils will open the season at Fergus Falls Saturday at a tournament.

They will hold their home opener Saturday, Sept. 5 against Ridgewater.