Hawaii volleyball is looking in the opposite direction for a boost.

In the first seven matches, four different opposite attackers have started sets. The opposite hits on the right side in five of the six rotation turns, and an offensive threat is needed there to keep opponents from planting double blocks across the front-left hitter.

"Right now, we need to get more production from that opposite position," said head coach Charlie Wade, whose Warriors play Grand Canyon Friday and Saturday in the Stan Sheriff Center.

Johann Timmer, a freshman from New Zealand, was the best opposite through most of fall training. But he missed the latter part because of an ankle injury that hindered his vertical jump.

He has had an uneven inaugural season, hitting .571 in the opener against UC San Diego, then committing more errors than kills in the following night’s rematch. Timmer started the first six matches, but was used as a serving specialist in the past weekend’s match against Pepperdine. He also is recovering from a staph-like infection on his left leg.

‘I’m trying to work on my consistency," said Timmer, who said his ankle is now only a "minor problem."

Taylor Averill played the final three sets of the four-set loss to Pepperdine. Before that match, Wade instructed Averill to work on his block reads. Averill answered with two solo blocks.

"He was a presence out there blocking, for sure," Wade said. "And he gave us enough offense where they couldn’t just start loading up on the other outside hitter."

Wade said Averill is still training as a backup setter, and there is a possibility he also might be used as a middle blocker.

"Taylor has been playing well," Wade said.

Brook Sedore and Harrison Carroll also have been used at opposite.

"We have options," Wade said

Scott Hartley, a sophomore, is yet another possibility. Hartley was used sparingly last season. But those cameo appearances, he said, gave him a "good taste" of collegiate volleyball.

"I have more confidence," Hartley said. "It’s not nerve-racking going on the court like it was last year. I feel I can help the team."

Hartley played opposite in high school and club competitions.

"The first season I played outside was last year, due to my height," said Hartley, who is 6-4. "Opposite is my natural position. I enjoy it. That’s where I feel most comfortable."

Wade said Hartley is an active blocker and a good defender. Hartley could touch 11 feet 2 in the fall, but has improved his vertical jump and now can reach a marker at 11-5.

"Scott Hartley has worked his way into the mix," Wade said. "It’s nice to have options."