By Chris Parker
Diamond volleyball had a breakthrough season last year winning 17 total matches and a district championship. The Wildcats accomplished this on the strength of eight seniors.
“That group has left big shoes to fill. They were a group of kids who could play any spot and were just naturally athletic. They were 100% of our offense and made up 90% of our defensive efforts,” Diamond volleyball coach Britany Cheek said. “I will miss their drive, their passion and court awareness. Also the ability to put the ball down.”
Senior Grace Irwin is the lone returner from last year’s nine-player rotation. She will move from defensive specialist to a six-rotation outside hitter.
Jacey Starks (senior setter), Reagan Braiser (senior setter), Emily Meador (senior outside), Gabby Duley (sophomore middle), Kilyn Gardley (sophomore middle), Emilee Shallenburger (sophomore libero) and Lydia Cupp (sophomore right side) are all former junior varsity players expected to step up to varsity. Freshmen Makalynn Lafferty and Janalyn Kralicek will also look to make an immediate impact.
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“Overall, I expect to be competitive in every game and make another run in post-season,” Cheek said. “These girls have huge shoes to fill with last year’s graduating class and will have targets on their back being district champs last year also, but I feel with the work ethic this group has, nothing is impossible.”
Diamond opens the season on Sept. 1 at Monett, as they continue to navigate through the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I think with the uncertainty of everything it caused added worry to the summer. We normally start once school is out, but was pushed back a few weeks,” Cheek said. “I feel like this has made us realize not to take anything for granted and to love the time we have in the gym even more. We were able to do weights and have open gyms, so we were a couple of the lucky ones. Our league was delayed a few weeks, but preparations were made and it allowed us to compete. Hoping the fall can be a smooth ride for everyone.”
