WOODBURY — Rosters change every year in high school sports. For Nonnewaug girls volleyball, this year’s changes include a new face in the libero spot.

But why is the libero so important? 

“The libero position was created to lengthen volleyball rallies,” said Nonnewaug volleyball coach Marty Malaspina. “In volleyball, you only have a certain amount of subs.” 

Senior Ava Parks, who previously played outside right hitter, is finding her way as she fills in as the libero this season. She’s played most of the fall in that position.

“It’s great. I share the spot with other people so I’m not the [only] libero, but it’s really fun,” says Parks. “It’s fun trying to receive the ball. You’re just throwing yourself when you know you’re OK.”

Normally, a team can only include one libero. The NCAA now allows liberos on the roster, but for high schools, this rule only carries over to private schools as they share similar rules to the NCAA. 

“This year they just allowed the NCAA two liberos on the roster per set,” says Malaspina, “meaning not only can you use a girl as libero, but you can also have a backup libero as well and use her instead to lengthen the rallies and improve the defense.”

Going from playing one position for most of a high school career to switching to a new position can be a big change.

“I was a little nervous at first because Juliette [Nichols] played the role really well [in 2023],” says Parks. “I actually looked up the stats for the last five liberos so I can compare and try to improve on that. I was very excited. Since volleyball is such a good sport, you can see your improvement.”

The Chiefs started the season 9-0 entering a key Berkshire League matchup Oct. 1 against co-league leader Northwestern.