By Chris Parker
Republic volleyball had a young team last year with just two seniors that played regular sets. Experience gained last year will pay off this year.
“Our younger players gained confidence, knowledge about this game and what it will take to be successful this season,” Republic volleyball coach Allison Davis said.
Basketball star Kaemyn Bekemeier leads the returning players. She earned honorable mention all-conference honors last year after she contributed 179 kills, 29 aces, 171 digs and 200 serve receptions. She will play six rotations focusing on the outside in the front row.
“I believe that one of Kaemyn’s greatest assets on the volleyball court is that she is a multi-sport athlete. That enhances how she deals with adversity, how she competes, increased hand-eye coordination, balance, endurance, explosion, her leadership skills and teamwork,” Davis said.
Junior Kailey Manes jumped from 98 kills as a sophomore to 231 kills last year. She led the team in aces (32), blocks (14) and kill attacks (634). She will play middle front.
“As a freshman, I put a lot of responsibility on her shoulders. She (Manes) came straight out of middle school volleyball into a starting varsity spot in the middle front row. I also needed another setter to fulfil our 6-2 lineup her freshman year and because of her athleticism I nominated her, who had never set before. Typically I wouldn’t ask that of a freshman, but we needed her. Last year she was able to focus on her hitting and gain some confidence, which led to an increase in her hitting average,” Davis said. “I’m expecting a lot of Kailey, as I do for all of my athletes. I expect her to be even more competitive in the front row and eventually in the back row. I expect her to step into more of a leadership role vocally and become one of the top hitters in the conference.”
Seniors Mykenzie Hicks (defensive specialist) and Megan Decker (right side) return to the lineup. Hicks led the team in digs last year with 197.
“Both have done a great job of continually being vocal leaders on and off the court, and have done an amazing job of buying into the ‘new’ program and leading the team in a positive way,” Davis said.
CLICK HERE FOR A FULL SEASON SCHEDULE
Junior Avery Riggs will look to expand her attacking after putting down 139 kills last season while also making more of a defensive impact. She will play right side and outside hitter.
“Avery is always willing to play any position that will help the team. My goal for Avery this season is her defense. She can hit the ball, but I want her to lead in blocks, shutting players down at the net. Another front row player that can also help us in the back row. She’s a good passer that we could use this season as well,” Davis said.
Payge Plank will orchestrate the offense at setter after contributing 634 assists last year.
“Payge does a phenomenal job of leading the court. She sets high expectations for herself and for her teammates,” Davis said.
Carina Pacheco (junior defensive specialist) and Rilynn Finley (sophomore middle hitter) also return.
“(Pacheco) is a returning DS that is quiet, but she always comes up with big plays. People underestimate her and that’s when she shines the most,” Davis said. “Rilynn has gotten stronger just over the summer. She’s played a lot of volleyball and has gained confidence and knowledge with this sport. Not only will she be a big offensive asset for us, but her defense at the net is crucial.”
Junior transfer Claire Esther will impact the varsity lineup at outside hitter and potentially will play six rotations.
Last year, Missouri made the switch to five sets which provided a new challenge for the state’s volleyball teams.
“It’s a lot of playing time on those game nights and because of our competitive schedule. We went to five sets most nights. It’s good though. It makes the girls dig deep and really fight for those types of games,” Davis said. “Conditioning has always been a priority, but along with continued conditioning we scrimmage a lot with high intensity and speed.”
DOWNLOAD THE O-ZONE APP NOW!
APPLE – CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD
ANDROID – CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD
Republic is looking for its first winning season since 2016. The Lady Tigers feel like they will be able to make a run at a winning record this year.
“My overall expectations for the team this year is to compete competitively within our conference and district. The girls have voiced how badly they want to be respected in our conference and district. We’ve been patient. We’ve put in the time. Now it’s time to put it all together,” Davis said.
Republic will travel to Rogersville on Aug. 24 for a jamboree with the host Wildcats, Parkview and Fair Grove. The Lady Tigers open the season on Aug. 28 at the Branson Invitational.
