By Chris Parker
Licking volleyball broke through last year posting a 31-10 overall record with a third place finish in Class 2. The Lady Wildcats have now won 24, 27 and 31 matches over the past three seasons.
Terri Moncrief takes over as head coach this year. She has been a part of the volleyball program in Licking for the past six seasons. She will look to keep Licking’s strong run of success going this year.
“(I want them to) stay focused, work hard and push themselves,” Moncrief said. “This group of girls have seen a lot of success in volleyball and basketball so they know how much hard work it takes to reach the state level.”
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Licking returns just two players from last year’s team that played in every set in senior Kamryn Barnes and junior Kylie Taylor. Both earned all-state honors.
Barnes led the Lady Wildcats with 275 kills last year. She was second on the team in digs at 685.
“Kamryn’s experience and knowledge is huge for us, she leads by example and the team trusts her. We will look to her strength and knowledge in tough situations,” Moncrief said.
Taylor led Licking with 685 digs last year. She will transition from a defensive-focused role to outside hitter this year.
“This role will allow us to utilize her defensive strength and court awareness well as allow her to display her strength at the net,” Moncrief said.
Anna Sullins (senior setter), Kimrey Krewson (senior defensive specialist), Kiley Ingram (junior middle), Winter Murray (junior middle/OH), Abbie Sullins (sophomore middle), Maci Sparks (sophomore right side), Kaida Cook (sophomore middle), Riley Moloney (freshman defensive specialist) and Hanna Medlock (freshman outside hitter) will look to step up at the varsity level.
“I have high expectations for this year, the girls came in and worked hard this summer. They played competed with tough teams this summer. They played well together and have great attitudes. I am excited to see what this season will bring,” Moncrief said.
Licking opens the season on Sept. 1 at home against Houston.
