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Volleyball
US National High School Preview Series
Tue, August 27, 2024 at 10:08 AM . Arizona
San Tan Foothills High School, located in Queen Creek, Arizona, is gearing up for an exciting upcoming volleyball season. With new head coach Paris McFall at the helm, the team is looking to make some big strides on the court. Coach McFall brings a fresh perspective to the team, with a focus on building a strong team dynamic and pushing players to reach their full potential. When asked about her key goals for the season, Coach McFall shared, "We are hoping to finish in the top 3 of the region and improve on knowledge, skill set, and competitiveness." To achieve these goals, the team will need to stay grounded while also continuously building and stacking their knowledge base throughout the season. One of the team's strengths this year is their group of top returning players from last season. These players include multi-sport athletes who bring a variety of skills and experiences to the team. "We don't have a ton of club talent on our team, but we do have multi-sport athletes that I believe will lend itself well as we try and take a step forward as a program," said Coach McFall. These returning players will serve as leaders for the team, both on and off the court. In addition to the returning players, Coach McFall is also excited about the potential impact of two new players joining the team this season. Sophomores Cam Hernandez and Memphis Thompkins are expected to make an immediate impact as versatile pin hitters. Coach McFall highlighted Hernandez's height and ability to get valuable touches on the block, as well as Thompkins' development of a strong jump topspin serve and consistent passing. When it comes to team chemistry and camaraderie, Coach McFall has a clear plan in place. "Strong communication through the match (before, during, and after the rally), relentless effort and infectious energy that elevate the players around them, and lastly, trust in their team and their team in them," she said. By fostering a family atmosphere, both on and off the court, Coach McFall aims to create a positive and supportive environment for her players. As for motivation, Coach McFall believes in creating a sense of family within the team. "We bond by celebrating each other's success and ending every practice with 3 shout-outs that have to be directed at someone other than yourself," she shared. This creates a strong sense of accountability and teamwork, pushing players to push themselves to their full potential.