Play1 Team Offseason Report: North Platte Volleyball (Missouri)
Offseason Focus
This offseason, North Platte Volleyball is placing a strong emphasis on agility, footwork, individual skills, and team bonding. The coaching staff is also prioritizing endurance and stamina, aiming to improve overall physical conditioning to keep the team competitive through long matches and tough opponents.
Special Offseason Events
North Platte is making the offseason meaningful with several special events and activities. A Youth Volleyball Camp is being organized to give back to the community while helping young players learn the game directly from high school athletes. The team is also planning a donation drive for the local Women and Children’s Shelter, reinforcing their commitment to community impact.
In terms of player development, the Panthers will attend an away camp that combines training and team bonding. They'll also participate in summer scrimmages, sharpening their competitive edge. The offseason concludes with Athletic Dead Week, followed by a high-energy Midnight Madness practice to kick off the new school year. The team will also host a start-of-season banquet with players and families.
Notable Additions & Departures
The Panthers are navigating a major roster transition after graduating five seniors, including standout Katherine Richardson, a versatile player who contributed as a setter, outside hitter, and opposite. Also departing are Ryleigh Kidwell (OH/OP), Haylie Davis (OH/OP), Kayla Humes (MH), and Madison Willoughby (Libero) — all leaving behind big shoes to fill.
The team also bids farewell to Assistant Coach Cali Burns and is currently awaiting the announcement of a new assistant who will help shape the future of the program.
Players to Watch
A few key returners are ready to step into larger roles this season. Senior Leala Day, who shifted from JV Libero to Second Setter/Op last year, is expected to make a big impact. Rylee Perkins, now a junior, enters her third year on varsity and is one to watch closely.
Seniors Kate Barnes and Elizabeth Archer will provide veteran leadership, and the team will also feature a mix of returning underclassmen and promising new additions.
One newcomer, Brynlee Scoggins, is already turning heads. Attending every open gym, Brynlee demonstrates consistent effort, quick learning, and a strong work ethic that’s earning her early praise from the coaching staff.
Weight Lifting & Fitness
North Platte benefits from a strong Summer Weightlifting Program led by two dedicated coaches. Coach Richardson encourages all her athletes to participate, reinforcing the importance of strength and conditioning in building a durable, explosive team.
Nutrition
Coach Richardson makes nutrition a regular topic of conversation with her team. From hydration habits to game-day fuel, athletes are taught to prioritize water and avoid the pitfalls of sugary and caffeinated energy drinks. One phrase that’s become a team mantra: “Hydrate or die-drate!” — a humorous but memorable reminder of the importance of wellness.
Coaching Perspective
Coach Richardson plans to roll out new coaching techniques and strategies this season, but is waiting to finalize plans in collaboration with the incoming assistant coach. The goal is to align the coaching team and present a unified, purposeful plan to the players at the start of the season.
Fan Engagement & Community Impact
While specific plans are still in the works, Coach Richardson is looking forward to working with the new assistant coach to expand community outreach and fan engagement. Last season, support from fans reached new heights — including a special meal and prayer provided by the Women of Camden Point Baptist Church — leaving a lasting impact on the team.
Biggest Challenges Ahead
With a relatively young and evolving roster, North Platte anticipates tough matchups against larger, more experienced teams. Still, Coach Richardson is confident in her squad's resilience, scrappiness, and joy for the game. "We will be strong and face every challenge as a team," she says.
The program also takes time to recognize and honor its graduating seniors, whose leadership and talent left a meaningful legacy. "Great job Class of 2025 — we will miss you and wish you the best of luck!"
Offseason Focus
This offseason, North Platte Volleyball is placing a strong emphasis on agility, footwork, individual skills, and team bonding. The coaching staff is also prioritizing endurance and stamina, aiming to improve overall physical conditioning to keep the team competitive through long matches and tough opponents.
Special Offseason Events
North Platte is making the offseason meaningful with several special events and activities. A Youth Volleyball Camp is being organized to give back to the community while helping young players learn the game directly from high school athletes. The team is also planning a donation drive for the local Women and Children’s Shelter, reinforcing their commitment to community impact.
In terms of player development, the Panthers will attend an away camp that combines training and team bonding. They'll also participate in summer scrimmages, sharpening their competitive edge. The offseason concludes with Athletic Dead Week, followed by a high-energy Midnight Madness practice to kick off the new school year. The team will also host a start-of-season banquet with players and families.
Notable Additions & Departures
The Panthers are navigating a major roster transition after graduating five seniors, including standout Katherine Richardson, a versatile player who contributed as a setter, outside hitter, and opposite. Also departing are Ryleigh Kidwell (OH/OP), Haylie Davis (OH/OP), Kayla Humes (MH), and Madison Willoughby (Libero) — all leaving behind big shoes to fill.
The team also bids farewell to Assistant Coach Cali Burns and is currently awaiting the announcement of a new assistant who will help shape the future of the program.
Players to Watch
A few key returners are ready to step into larger roles this season. Senior Leala Day, who shifted from JV Libero to Second Setter/Op last year, is expected to make a big impact. Rylee Perkins, now a junior, enters her third year on varsity and is one to watch closely.
Seniors Kate Barnes and Elizabeth Archer will provide veteran leadership, and the team will also feature a mix of returning underclassmen and promising new additions.
One newcomer, Brynlee Scoggins, is already turning heads. Attending every open gym, Brynlee demonstrates consistent effort, quick learning, and a strong work ethic that’s earning her early praise from the coaching staff.
Weight Lifting & Fitness
North Platte benefits from a strong Summer Weightlifting Program led by two dedicated coaches. Coach Richardson encourages all her athletes to participate, reinforcing the importance of strength and conditioning in building a durable, explosive team.
Nutrition
Coach Richardson makes nutrition a regular topic of conversation with her team. From hydration habits to game-day fuel, athletes are taught to prioritize water and avoid the pitfalls of sugary and caffeinated energy drinks. One phrase that’s become a team mantra: “Hydrate or die-drate!” — a humorous but memorable reminder of the importance of wellness.
Coaching Perspective
Coach Richardson plans to roll out new coaching techniques and strategies this season, but is waiting to finalize plans in collaboration with the incoming assistant coach. The goal is to align the coaching team and present a unified, purposeful plan to the players at the start of the season.
Fan Engagement & Community Impact
While specific plans are still in the works, Coach Richardson is looking forward to working with the new assistant coach to expand community outreach and fan engagement. Last season, support from fans reached new heights — including a special meal and prayer provided by the Women of Camden Point Baptist Church — leaving a lasting impact on the team.
Biggest Challenges Ahead
With a relatively young and evolving roster, North Platte anticipates tough matchups against larger, more experienced teams. Still, Coach Richardson is confident in her squad's resilience, scrappiness, and joy for the game. )
Share With