Most times when you see a volleyball player at first glance, you wouldn't look too long to find out who would be first to stand out.

Mary Star High sophomore outside hitter Ally Spillane is one of those who would spot at first glance.

While that she appears to be the one most look at to be the focal point of a team, Spillane is very rooted in the team concept and is ready to start anew as the Stars plan to make noise in the wide-open Santa Fe League.

"I am excited to begin the 2014 season," says Spillane, who made All-Camino Real League second team last season for Mary Star. "I am coming off a productive year of both Club and Beach volleyball and look forward to getting back on the court with some of my returning teammates, as well as some new members."

Even though she also played basketball in her younger days, volleyball is in Spillane's blood as she has competed competitively in the sport since the age of 9 both in indoor and beach. She came into her first year at Mary Star as part of a talented freshman class that included the likes of setter Angela Pisano, middle blocker Kaitlyn Martinez and outside hitter Lexi Andrie.

Spillane is also pleased to be playing for first-year coach Tyler Jaynes, a 6'9'' Pepperdine alumni.

"I feel coach Jaynes is a great fit for Mary Star and will be instrumental in guiding this team through a successful season," Spillane says.

Right now, the Stars are currently 1-3 overall heading into Santa Fe League play, but Spillane currently leads Mary Star in kills and is one of the top serving masters in all of San Pedro prep girls volleyball. Along with Pisano, Spillane's jump serve caused massive headaches last Tuesday in the Stars' lone victory, a four-set triumph over in-city neighbor Port Of Los Angeles.

With only St. Genevieve and St. Pius-X/St. Matthias boasting victories thus far, the Stars could be in line to challenge for the Santa Fe League title after not faring well in the Camino Real League last season going 0-10.

"I am extremely excited about our team's ability to compete for the Santa Fe League title," Spillane says. "I am confident that we have enough talent and strengths in a variety of positions to be successful."