Sophomore setter Kawika Shoji was an AVCA second-team All-America choice last season.

Nov. 18, 2008

STANFORD, Calif. - The Stanford men's volleyball team is extending an invitation to come take part in the Fall Cardinal and White Scrimmage, a free event to be held Friday, Nov. 21, at 4 p.m. at Burnham Pavilion.

The event gives fans an opportunity to see one of the country's up-and-coming programs, get a first look at perhaps the nation's top freshman class, and returning All-American setter Kawika Shoji.

Last season, coach John Kosty guided the Cardinal to a 14-game turnaround, transforming the team from 3-25 in 2007 to 17-11 in 2008.

Now, in his third season as head coach, Kosty returns 15 of 17 players and five of six starters. In addition, the five-member freshman class includes three U.S. youth national team regulars, including Volleyball Magazine's No. 1 recruit, outside hitter Brad Lawson, from Honolulu.

Last year's kill leader, Evan Romero, returns to lead the attack.

Afterward, there will be a chance to meet the players and coaches.

The Cardinal opens its season in UC Santa Barbara's Elephant Bar tournament Jan. 9-10.