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Volleyball
US National High School Preview Series
Mon, August 26, 2024 at 11:08 AM . Colorado
As the new coach of the Falcon High School volleyball team, Hannah Benton has had her hands full with establishing relationships and earning the trust of her players. With a mix of returning veterans and new talent, Benton is determined to bring a new dynamic to the team and lead them to success on and off the court. When asked about the top returning players from last season, Benton highlights Taylor Matthews and Makenna Stephenson, both seniors, who bring a strong offensive and defensive presence to the team. Junior Taryn Hall is also praised for her smart and highly offensive setting skills. These players will be essential to the team's success this season, bringing a balance of experience and skills to the court. But Benton is also excited about some new players who will make an immediate impact on the team. Eva Hamilton, a junior, has caught Benton's eye with her excellent defense and ability to read the game. Another standout is freshman Olivia Pitts, who impresses with her strong blocking and versatility on the court. Benton believes that these players, along with the experienced ones, will make for a winning combination this season. When it comes to selecting team captains, Benton looks for qualities such as grit, energy, and a love for the game and their teammates. She believes that true leaders are not without fear or flaws, but it's how they handle adversity and support their teammates that makes them admirable. Junior Eva Hamilton and freshman Olivia Pitts have been named captains for this season, with their skills and leadership qualities making them the perfect fit for the role. Team chemistry and camaraderie are crucial elements for any successful team. Benton understands this and works towards building trust and respect among her players. She believes that nothing unites a team more than a common goal, and her emphasis on supporting each other and working through challenges together has already improved the team's bond. Motivating players to reach their full potential is a crucial aspect of Benton's coaching philosophy. She encourages her players to turn towards each other during tough moments rather than away. Benton stresses the importance of being able to push through mistakes and focus on one point at a time. This mental toughness is something she aims to instill in her team, making them resilient and able to thrive under pressure. One of the biggest challenges for Benton this season has been adjusting to a new team and establishing her coaching style.