On Wednesday, October 16th, the Athens Academy volleyball team finished their season with a tough loss against Bethlehem Christian in the state tournament. Yet, the players fought hard until the end, a testament to their work throughout the fall season. Advancing to the state tournament is impressive, especially considering not all teams do so.
Nina Kline, one of only two seniors returning for her fourth season, reflects on her experience, “The team has changed a lot over the course of my 4 years, especially my 3 years on varsity. This was in large part because the team my sophomore year was very senior-heavy, which left room for lots of new young players the next two years, who I have had so much fun getting to know!” Despite having a young team, Nina is optimistic and exclaims that the young team will be “very successful because they will have more experience under their belt to pair with their talent!”
In addition to growing on the court throughout the season, the team bonded off the court, contributing to their successes. Dyllan Adams, a new freshman player, recalls her season highlight being the team’s scavenger hunt, where unforgettable memories were made.
Fostering this type of team environment can be attributed to the leadership demonstrated on the team, especially by seniors like Reese Jarrard and Nina. Dyllan recounts that their positive energy allowed the team to “push through and fight until the very end for a win, and our grit and determination only grew as the season progressed.
The volleyball team is only projected to grow in the following years as the majority freshman team begins to assume leadership positions just as their seniors, Nina and Reese, did so.
