The Escambia Academy Cougar volleyball team is filled with familiar faces and a strong batch of seniors that could lead to a good year on the court.

Several of the players are teammates and friends in other sports, which leads to good teamwork and more unity on the court, said coach Erica Hammonds, who listed it as one of the team’s strengths this year.

One of the weaknesses is defense, she added.

Hammonds said she believes the older team could have a good season and play well during the final season of play for seniors Lacie Flowers, Grayson Emmons, Peyton Snider and Shyla Godwin.

“I really think they’ll do well,” Hammonds said. “I’m really hoping for them that we can do something special.”

The varsity and junior high school teams practiced together Thursday from 9 to 11 during a session that ended with a spirited scrimmage in which Hammonds participated. The teams have been practicing since July 21 in anticipation of a varsity tri-match on Monday, Aug. 19 at Hooper Academy against the home team and Macon-East.

Both teams will play in a home match at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20 against Jackson Academy.