Fall 2019 Preview: Stockton Volleyball

By Chris Parker

Stockton volleyball returns one of the area’s most prolific hitters this season in senior Kaitlyn Creek. Creek put down 408 kills last year in helping lead the Lady Tigers to a 13-win season.

“She (Creek) is dedicated to being the best she can be. Last season she stayed after every practice to work on her skills. She currently is going to several camps around the U.S. to help build her skills to be ready for season,” Stockton Head Coach Amanda Walton said.

Creek will be the unquestioned leader this year. No other player on the team had more than 91 kills last season. She was also second on the team in digs with 289.

“She (Creek) is becoming a leader to the younger girls and trying to help inspire them to do their best. (She is) leading by example by giving her all every day,” Walton said. “I expect to see her come back to break more records and help prepare the team for some big wins.”

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Fellow senior Kira Frazier returns at setter after finishing second on the team with 202 assists last year. Frazier and Creek’s chemistry will be invaluable for the Stockton attack.

“Creek and Frazier work well on the court together. Frazier is talented with being able to set a ball were it needs to be and not just to a location. Creek and Frazier communicate well on how the offense should be ran. I expect to see more confidence and fierceness on the floor,” Walton said.

Senior libero Cassidy Duncan along with juniors Maygen Mings (middle) and Riley Stapp (middle/right side) also return after seeing varsity action last year. Mings is the second-leading returning hitter after securing 71 kills last year.

Junior Emma Sullivan (middle/outside) along with freshmen Summer Kenny (setter/middle) and Kylie Hunter (setter/defensive specialist) will be new players who will impact the varsity rotation.

This group has Walton expecting big things.

“We are looking to push the envelope,” Walton said. “We want to earn every win and be the best we can be on and off the court.”

While Creek’s status is set in stone, the Lady Tigers will work to find the right lineups early on this season.

“We have a lot of different options that are possible this year, and are looking for the best one for the team,” Walton said. “These girls are working hard over the summer to improve and show what being a Stockton Tiger is all about.”

Stockton opens the season on Sept. 3 at Ash Grove.