By Chris Parker
Conway volleyball has posted back-to-back seasons right around .500. Two years ago, the Lady Bears finished 14-13-4. Last year, the record was 12-13-3.
They are poised for a breakout with one all-state and two more all-district players returning.
Junior Gibby Beckler is that returning all-state player. She had the rare distinction of leading her team in both kills (240) and assists (281). Beckler was second on the team in aces (38), blocks (20) and digs (271).
“Gibby studies the game. She loves learning strategies and absolutely despises losing. She is a kid that loves pressure situations and wants the ball. She encourages her teammates and doesn’t want to be the center of attention. She is willing to play any position on the floor,” Conway head coach Tammy Beckler said. “I don’t want her to be satisfied with where she is at. I want her to play at a high intensity level and push her team to excel in tight matches.”
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Juniors Callie Cornelison and Bre Thompson both were named second-team all-district.
Cornelison, a libero, led Conway in digs (338) and serve receptions (488).
“I expect her (Cornelison) to step out of her comfort zone this season and cover more of the floor,” Beckler said. “She’s a silent leader so she is working on playing with more energy and being more vocal.”
Thompson, a six-rotation middle, was second on the team in kills (167) and assists (130) while she led in blocks (32).
“She (Thompson) plays year round sports so she is much stronger and she is maturing by making smarter plays,” Beckler said. “She plays with tons of energy and enthusiasm. If we get her blocking consistently, she’s going to be a force at the net.”
Katie Myers returns for her junior season after playing in just two matches last year before suffering a season-ending knee injury. She was an all-district selection as a freshman.
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“She’s back and is back to where she was,” Beckler said. “She will be hitting outside and also setting. She is a fierce competitor and loves to be challenged. She wants the ball in pressure situations.”
Lauren Wissbaum saw significant time last year as a freshman. She will be looked to even more in the middle as a strong blocker and server.
Carlie Stark (junior setter) is a new player to watch. Twins Graceson and Jamison Cromer return to the volleyball court after sitting out their sophomore and junior years. Both will play right side.
“Some of these kids have played together since 4th grade so our team chemistry should be better than ever. We have athletes who have been successful in other sports or club so our confidence will be better,” Beckler said.
Conway will travel to Sparta on Aug. 26 for a jamboree. The Lady Bears open the season on Aug. 31 at home against Mountain Grove.
