Lady Rockets Return Six Starters with Eyes on a Big Season
As the 2025 volleyball season approaches, Conotton Valley is set to hit the court with its most experienced and talent-packed roster yet. Led by Head Coach Denell Gordon, the Lady Rockets are blending veteran leadership, offseason dedication, and new athletic promise into a group that’s hungry for success.
Offseason Focus: A Late Start, But a Strong Push
With many of the athletes competing in three sports, Cotton Valley’s volleyball offseason doesn’t officially begin until late May. Still, several players stay engaged year-round through competitive club volleyball and independent training, ensuring they enter the season in peak form.
Offseason Events and Summer Circuit
The team’s summer schedule is a busy one, built for development and team bonding. Conotton Valley will attend the Matchpoint Camp, compete in tournaments at Dover High School and New Lexington High School, and participate in a twice-weekly summer league at New Philadelphia High School.
Roster Outlook: Experience Returns
The Lady Rockets are returning six starters from last season, plus one more player expected to play a key role. With varsity-tested veterans across the court, Coach Gordon sees this as the most balanced and talented squad she’s coached.
Players to Watch: Veteran Core and Breakout Potential
Delilah Williams (Sr.) – A four-year varsity setter and the engine of the offense.
Maddi Kelley (Sr.) – Another four-year player, bringing leadership and consistency.
Ava Williams (Jr.) – A standout on both offense and defense with two varsity years already.
Charli Whittaker (Jr.) – Poised for a breakout season with her all-around skill set.
Whitney Watkins (Sr.) – The team’s steady libero since her sophomore year.
Ashtyn Walker (Sr.) – Will see her first full season and is expected to be a big contributor.
Bella Higgins (Sr.) – New to the sport, but her athleticism and height make her a rising force.
Several players, including Ava, Delilah, Whitney, and Ashtyn, sharpened their skills through club volleyball, giving the Rockets a competitive edge heading into the season.
Strength Training and Fitness
Most of the team’s athletes participate in school-based weight training classes and pursue additional fitness work independently. Being multi-sport athletes also helps keep them in excellent condition year-round.
Nutrition Notes
Coach Gordon keeps nutrition advice simple: “Make sure you’re eating enough—and candy and Alani don’t count!” It’s a fun yet effective reminder for athletes to fuel themselves properly.
Coaching Perspective: A New Offensive Dynamic
With a deeper roster and more offensive threats than ever, the biggest shift this year will be learning to spread the offense. In past seasons, the Rockets leaned heavily on one or two go-to hitters. Now, they have the tools to become a truly balanced attack.
Community Engagement: A Team and a Tribe
Coach Gordon emphasizes the importance of student involvement and building a strong home-court atmosphere. “We enjoy a big cheering section,” she says, “and we love making it fun for them to be there!”
Outlook for 2025: Confidence and Chemistry
With so many experienced players returning and a culture of trust already in place, the biggest key to success will be internal. “They just have to believe in themselves from day one,” says Coach Gordon. “If they do that, we can have a great season.”
 – A four-year varsity setter and the engine of the offense.
Maddi Kelley (Sr.) – Another four-year player, bringing leadership and consistency.
Ava Williams (Jr.) – A standout on both offense and defense with two varsity years already.
Charli Whittaker (Jr.) – Poised for a breakout season with her all-around skill set.
Whitney Watkins (Sr.) – The team’s steady libero since her sophomore year.
Ashtyn Walker (Sr.) – Will see her first full season and is expected to be a big contributor.
Bella Higgins (Sr.) – New to the sport, but her athleticism and height make her a rising force.
Several players, including Ava, Delilah, Whitney, and Ashtyn, sharpened their skills through club volleyball, giving the Rockets a competitive edge heading into the season.
Strength Training and Fitness
Most of the team’s athletes participate in school-based weight training classes and pursue additional fitness work independently. Being multi-sport athletes also helps keep them in excellent condition year-round.
Nutrition Notes
Coach Gordon keeps nutrition advice simple: “Make sure you’re eating enough—and candy and Alani don’t count!” It’s a fun yet effective reminder for athletes to fuel themselves properly.
Coaching Perspective: A New Offensive Dynamic
With a deeper roster and more offensive threats than ever, the biggest shift this year will be learning to spread the offense. In past seasons, the Rockets leaned heavily on one or two go-to hitters. Now, they have the tools to become a truly balanced attack.
Community Engagement: A Team and a Tribe
Coach Gordon emphasizes the importance of student involvement and building a strong home-court atmosphere. “We enjoy a big cheering section,” she says, “and we love making it fun for them to be there!”
Outlook for 2025: Confidence and Chemistry
With so many experienced players returning and a culture of trust already in place, the biggest key to success will be internal. “They just have to believe in themselves from day one,” says Coach Gordon. “If they do that, we can have a great season.”)
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