Volleyball season has ended after a bonding season that also had a bunch of firsts. The first season with a new coach, Ellie Nonemacher, a new group of fresh players, and a new feel to the season.
Senior Naomi Vazquez has been in this for the long run.“I have played volleyball for seven years. My position was libero,” Vazquez said. The libero is the best defensive player on the team, a role Vasquez has embraced.
Vazquez knew there were some ups and downs with the season but overall felt good about it, “There were a lot more girls on the team, which made enough for a JV team as well as a varsity. This made it more fun, but some of the girls made it difficult to have a positive environment with the attitude allowed on the court.” Vazquez said. Other athletes say Vazquez was a great leader and always there to support her teammates.
Vazquez enjoyed her last season here at EHS, “The season was an improvement compared to the previous season, so it ended well. My last season of playing volleyball went pretty well. I was able to play with some of my best friends, even with a losing record,” Vazquez said.
Vazquez says she has definitely shown improvement in her game and in her life outside of the game, “Volleyball definitely helped me grow as a person. It helped me create new relationships with people, and give me an open mindset to grow.” Vazquez said.
Varsity players logged some impressive stats this season. Vazquez lead the league in digs with 5.1 per game for a total of 334 for the season. Junior Kira Cole had 66 serving aces on the season and Isabelle Lubbers had 210 assists for the year.
Junior Eden Thomas had 160 digs on the season and loves the sport, “I have played volleyball since 8th grade. I have moved around positions quite a bit” Thomas said.
She has made the most of this season.“The season was the best season I have ever played. My teammates were amazing and they have become some of my best friends.” Thomas said.
Thomas has grown in many ways by playing the sport, “Volleyball has helped me become a better person in many ways and it strengthened my mental mindset,” Thomas said.
Freshman Lili Manfre was a swing player taking on roles in JV and Varsity, “I have been playing for about five years. I played Outside, Middle, Defensive specialist, and a back up libero.” Manfre said.
She said the season was good but there can be some tweaks, “The season overall was a good season after all the ups and downs.” Manfre said.
She thought highly of her teammates, “My teammates were definitely uplifting, supportive, flexible and always made sure we would have fun,” Manfre said.
Manfre has also had some life lessons from the sport, “Volleyball has definitely helped me a lot to be a better person and grow as a person.” Manfre said.
There were only two seniors on the varsity team this year, meaning next year, the team will be full of returning experts on the courts.
