The Rio Hondo College women's beach volleyball team will make its return to the sand on Friday (Jan. 26) when the Roadrunners officially open the 2024 season with a pair of non-conference matches at the El Camino College courts.

Rio Hondo is set to take on Fullerton College at 11 a.m. followed immediately by a 12 p.m. contest against Cuesta College.

Head coach Teddi Esko is excited for the upcoming season as she looks to improve on last year's 15-6 overall record.

Esko will look to returners Jade Fuentes and Jaida Zuniga to help lead the squad. Also, the duo of Daniela Sanchez and Maleia Petterez are expected to have a solid season.

"Both Daniela and Maleia will bring some great experience after playing in the No. 5 slot last season," said Esko. "They have much improved and should be moving up the ladder."

Joining the beach squad for the first time this season is Maria Bejines. This past fall, Bejines helped lead the Roadrunners to an indoor South Coast Conference championship after capturing All-American, All-State, and All-Southern California honors. The SCC Most Valuable Player should make an immediate impact on the team.

Esko will also look for freshmen newcomers Josie Navarro, Loren Forster and Herlinda Casanova to all play well this season.

Following Friday, Rio Hondo is back in action on Feb. 2 when the Roadrunners take on Moorpark College in a match played at El Camino.