MEN'S VOLLEYBALL
vs. Alumni
Tomorrow: Hawaii vs. alumni, 7 p.m. Alumni vs. alumni, 5 p.m., Stan Sheriff Center.
Alumni: More than 30 former Rainbow players, including players from the team's club season in the 1950s and '60s, will participate in the two matches. Among them are members of last year's team, Mason Kuo and Chris Kosty. Also expected to play are Damien Hardy, Lyman Lacro, Pono Maa, Erik Pichel, Rick Tune and Aaron Wilton.
Varsity: The Rainbows unveil a squad with nine newcomers, including eight freshmen. Three first-year players are expected to start -- sophomore setter Stefan Krejci and freshmen Eyal Zimet and Costas Theocharidis. Veterans returning include middles Brenton Davis and Torry Tukuafu, and outside hitter Clayton Stanley, who spent part of the summer with the U.S. national team. The team's lone senior is Russell Lockwood, who will be used as a libero.
Something new: Hawaii will employ the "libero'' this season, something that has been at the men's international level. The designated back-row specialist wears a contrasting color uniform and can enter the match at any time with unlimited substitution. The libero may not be used as the primary setter, cannot serve or attack the ball from behind the 10-meter line ... Also in use this season is a red, white and blue ball.
Next up: Hawaii opens the season next week with nonconference matches against Loyola-Chicago at 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday..
Tickets: $5-$12.
On the air: No TV or radio.
End quote: "I can't wait to play in the arena,'' said freshman hitter Eyal Zimet, who is from Israel. "I have heard so much about the fans. It will be very special for me and the other new players.''
By Cindy Luis, Star-Bulletin
