By Chris Parker
Buffalo volleyball had one of the state’s biggest turnaround seasons last year going from eight wins in 2022 to 26 wins last season. It was the first 20-win season since 2015 and the most wins for the program since 2013.
“I am very proud of what our team accomplished last season,” Buffalo head coach Jamie Dryer said. “We had a great group of athletes that were dedicated to our team goals and values. We retained our entire varsity lineup from 2022 to 2023. They put in a lot of hard work in the off-season, both in the gym and also in the weight room. We spent the summer leading up to last season growing as individuals and as a team. The girls came into the 2023 season with something to prove and they did it well. I believe last year’s team set the tone for our program for years to come.”
A trio of seniors who each played in almost every set last year departed the program.
“We will miss our seniors from last year,” Dryer said. “Elizabeth Western, Kayli Wentz-Smith and Nell Hardy will be hard to replace. Their senior leadership was a key to our success last season.”
Plenty of talent returns this season led by junior Leah White. White earned all-state honors after she led Buffalo in kills (330) and blocks (71).
“She (White) is an incredible athlete. Her speed and ability to see the court have made her a dominant force on the front row for us. Her athletic ability gives her a definite advantage, but her unmatched work ethic is something that sets her apart,” Dryer said. “I have seen the most growth from Leah defensively. She has worked hard to improve her back row game. She has gained a lot of confidence defensively and I expect her to be a large threat offensively from the back row.”
White is a six-rotation player who leads the offense as a middle.
Kadynce Wilson led Buffalo in digs (468) and serve receptions (723) as a junior and returns to anchor the defense as a senior libero.
“Kadynce is the core of our defense and serve receive. Her consistency and ability to read the court are vital to our success. Our team relies on her competitive edge and energy,” Dryer said. “I expect Kadynce to continue her successful career. I look forward to her taking up a larger leadership role.”
Buffalo graduated its leading setter in Western who had 512 assists. No far behind her was senior Amaiya Jackson with 373 assists. She will be the primary setter this season.
“Elizabeth was an extraordinary athlete. Her athletic ability, consistency and volleyball IQ made her a huge asset to our team. She is leaving big shoes to fill,” Dryer said. “Amaiya has a lot of experience behind her. She has seen varsity time since her freshman year. She is a smart player with great court vision and a high volleyball IQ.”
Seniors Maddy Rash (middle), Ella Myers (defensive specialist) and Delaney Caviness (defensive specialist) along with junior Shelby Samek (outside) also return.
Dryer on Rash: “Maddy was a key factor in our success last season. She will continue to be a large part of our offense.”
Dryer on Myers: “Ella is a key piece to our serve receive and defense. Our team relies on her intensity and competitive drive.”
Dryer on Caviness: “Delaney is a very versatile player. She is a great leader and teammate. I expect to see her take on a few different roles this season.”
Dryer on Samek: “Shelby is an exceptional athlete. Her speed and athleticism alone make her an asset to our team. She has worked hard in the off-season. I look forward to seeing her continued growth this season.”
Caitlynn Daniels (sophomore middle/outside), Brooklyn Righter (junior setter/outside), Olyvia Williams (senior right side) and Natalie Burkle (junior right side) are newcomers to the varsity rotation to watch.
“Our biggest strength will be our athleticism. I expect us to be scrappy and out work our opponents,” Dryer said. “We are continuing to work on our versatility on offense. We will need a more balanced offense, so we can have as many options as possible.”
Buffalo will also be moving from the Ozark Highlands Conference to the Mid-Lakes Conference this season.
“I am excited for our move to the Mid-Lakes,” Dryer said. “I look forward to the competition and the caliber of teams we will get to see.”
Buffalo host Bolivar, Osage and Hillcrest for a jamboree on Aug. 27. The Bison open the regular season on Aug. 31 at the Stockton Tournament.
“I expect our team to continue the success from last season,” Dryer said. “We look to be competitive each night, regardless of our opponent.”
