Jen Nugent doesn’t mind being target practice.

The Pelham High School girls volleyball coach said she uses unique drills during practice to keep her team’s spirits up while trying to turn around a program that’s stumbled in recent years.

“They feed off of each other, and they’re a supportive group. We like to try to do some things that are fun but also productive,” said Nugent. “Even if that means hitting balls at me.”

Pelham opened its season with a 3-0 home loss to Souhegan, but the team improved in each game.

After falling in the first game, 25-13, the Pythons trimmed the Sabers lead to 22- 18 in the second frame before falling, 25-20.

The final game was the closest of the three, with Pelham close throughout; the score was 21-21 before the Sabers pulled away with a 25- 21 victory.

Nugent said she was happy with her team’s chemistry as the match progressed despite the setback.

“It was all about comfort level,” said Nugent. “It was their first match of the year, so just getting on the court and getting the season started was the big thing towards working the nerves out.”

Second-year captain Jacqui Perry is one of the Pelham leaders after topping the charts for the Pythons in digs, kills and blocks in 2008.

Sophomore Kathryn Mostone brings a determined, all-out style to the team; her mentor said the outside hitter won’t hesitate to hit the floor for a loose ball and also has improved her overall game.

Another player Nugent looks forward to watching this season is Sara Fuller, a junior middle blocker who the coach said shown rapid improvement and, thanks to her hard-hitting ability, a force at the net.

Last year, the team went 1-15, and the coach said she seeks a return to the tenacious defense Python players perfected several years ago, as well as an improved service game.

“We just want to be competitive, and we’ve gone a few years without that,” said Nugent. “It’ll take a lot of hours in the gym – and a lot of dedication.”