Renton volleyball is on the right track for a second straight playoff run — after 20 years of playoff absence — thanks largely to the Indians’ star: senior outside hitter Sarah Nelson.

One month into the season, Nelson has established herself as one of the Seamount League’s best players with her height, athleticism and knack for being right where she’s needed.

Renton coach Mati Bishop said — in addition to her great athletic ability — Nelson’s reliability is what makes her so valuable.

“She’s our big old blond security blanket,” he said. “We know if we’re in trouble, we can get the ball to her at any point, any match, anywhere.”

Nelson is averaging nearly 20 kills per game. She was especially tough on Lindbergh in an early, non-league win where she piled up 35 kills against the Eagles.

That win, over a Lindbergh team that is traditionally better than Renton, went a long way toward giving the Indians more confidence.

“Everybody was scared to go up against Lindbergh,” Nelson said. “But we did awesome and our confidence shot up. The girls didn’t really know where we were skill-wise compared to other teams before that. I think that showed what we can do.”

Lindbergh did get revenge, beating the Indians in three games (26-24, 25-12, 25-20) Sept. 29.

Setting up Nelson and other teammates for success is junior setter Aira Jose. Jose is talented and brings a great ability to communicate with the whole team on the court.

“She’s the glue that holds the team together,” Bishop said. “A mother hen of sorts.”

Sophomore Alina Chuong brings more athletic presence to the Indians. Though only 4-foot-11, Bishop said she can get eight inches higher than the net.

Junior Maria Young plays in the middle and brings height and athleticism. Bishop said she will occasionally make a hit that will stop practice because she hits it so hard.

Bishop’s goal for the team this year is a top-four finish in the Seamount.

“If we take care of business against the teams we need to, then pull an upset or two we could be sitting towards the top of the Seamount standings at the end of year,” he said. “At this point… the girls are starting to believe. They’re starting to see themselves as a quality competitive team.”

Renton is currently in sixth place in the Seamount. Lindbergh is in fourth, Hazen is tied for seventh.