Girard High School Volleyball Season Preview

The Girard High School volleyball team is gearing up for another exciting season as they strive towards their ultimate goal of making it to the state. With a good mix of returning players and new talent, the team is confident and determined to reach its full potential. The team's top returning players from last season include Maddie Coester (junior), Erika Boatman (junior), Graci Murphy (senior), Kaylee Davied (senior), Lynsey Bryant (senior), Alaina McGown (senior), and Rachel Bennett (senior). Coach Christen Jackson praises this group for their chemistry, as they have been playing together since they were young. This bond off the court translates to better teamwork and support on the court. The girls' love for the sport is evident in their dedication and enthusiasm, which has only grown stronger after falling short in the substate tournament last year. The team’s potential is evident as they’ve been diligently working towards their goal of making it to the state tournament, showcasing their skills in practice matches and scrimmages. Coach Jackson also credits the team's success to their hardworking seniors, who are responsible for creating a positive and supportive environment for all the girls in the program. With a strong focus on accountability and communication, Coach Jackson's coaching style emphasizes the importance of trust and teamwork. She motivates her players to push themselves to their full potential by instilling a sense of accountability and giving constructive criticism when needed. This approach has been successful, as the team has naturally adapted to it and has been able to bond and support each other. Despite the team's strong potential, there are still challenges to overcome. The team will start in a 5-1 rotation with Graci Murphy setting, despite her shorter stature. To make this work, the team will need to focus on strong-side hitter defense, which will be a new challenge for them this season. Another hurdle is the height difference against teams with taller players, but the team is prepared to adapt and strategize to work around it. The team's schedule offers tough opponents and exciting games, with schools such as Frontenac, Riverton, and Erie being strong competitors. The Carl Junction tournament also presents an opportunity for the team to play against teams from Missouri, something they haven't done in a while. Coach Jackson's coaching philosophy focuses on positivity and support, while also providing her players with the knowledge and skills to succeed.