By Chris Parker
West Plains volleyball is coming off the program’s first 20-win season since 2017. The Zizzers went 20-12-1 overall last season, and that number could improve this season with a deep roster set to take the court.
“We have consistently played 10 kids this summer and I think that is a huge strength for us,” West Plains head coach Hailey Beazley said. “Not only does it create a super competitive environment where everyone is constantly pushing each other, but it also takes the pressure off in games. If you are having an off night or even just a rough set, we have someone ready to step up and do the job.”
Lily Wiedemann returns for her senior year after earning first-team all-conference honors in her junior season. She put down a team-high 272 kills as a junior.
“Lily is such a well-rounded player. She can do all things. Last year we needed her to play middle, and she did it well. But we’re excited for her to be back outside this year. She has a lot of different shots and a high volleyball IQ. She also does a great job swinging from the back row,” Beazley said. “Lily has always been an incredible teammate. She will be a leader for us again this year. She lifts everyone up and always wants what is best for the team.”
Wiedemann will be an outside hitter and play six rotations.
The offense will once again run through Lucy Hafer. The junior was named honorable mention all-conference last season after she led West Plains with 440 total assists.
“I think it (Hafer’s experience) brings stability and confidence. Our hitters trust her, and they have built a good connection with her,” Beazley said. “Lucy’s greatest assets are her voice and her grit. She is always communicating. I love how vocal she is on the court from whistle to whistle she never stops. And she is tough as nails. She is all out effort all the time. You won’t find someone who works harder than her.”
Mylea Adams (junior middle), Mia Duggins (senior libero) and Jocelyn Denny (sophomore outside) all return after each played in at least 78 of 96 sets last season.
Beazley on Adams: “Mylea is so athletic. She’s super quick and explosive. She led our team in blocks last year and she will make a huge impact defensively again this year. She will also be a key-hitter for us.”
Beazley on Duggins: “Mia is calm and steady. She never gets rattled/frustrated, she provides control and consistency, and everyone trusts her.”
Beazley on Denny: “Jocelyn is a well-rounded player who will be playing outside for us. Her confidence has started developing this summer, and I’m excited to continue to watch her court presence grow.”
Libby Welch (junior DS), Ell Orr (junior right side), Ashlyn Tinsley (sophomore middle), Violet Hafer (freshman) and Emma Wiedemann (freshman) are newcomers to the varsity level who will look to make an impact.
It will be a new-look schedule this season as the Zizzers move from the dissolved Ozark Conference to the newly formed Ozark Mountain Conference this season.
“I’m excited about (the move),” Beazley said. “it’s a cool thing to be a part of something new. (We are) excited for a new schedule and new opponents. It would be pretty cool to be the first Ozark Mountain Conference Champions.”
West Plains will travel to Glendale on Aug. 27 for a jamboree with the host Falcons and Branson. The Zizzers open the regular season on Sept. 3 at home against Willow Springs.
“I think we will have a great year this year,” Beazley said. “We always talk about playing in a way that we are proud of no matter the outcome, win or lose we can walk away and be proud of our efforts. We will work for that night after night and I think that will lead to great things.”
