LEAVITTSBURG — The walls at Lovely High School are filled with awards and titles won by teams past and present, and a volleyball banner features two years, 2009 and 2010. Vikings coach Courtney Kish reminisces about her time as a player.
The goal is to add another year under that banner, and with a 7-1 record, the program seems primed to compete for the Mahoning Valley Athletic Conference Grey Tier title.
“We were young last year, but we had a majority of our team back and we had high expectations and high hopes. When we put in the effort defensively, we really get going and we get in good form.” Kish said. “We’re trying to improve some things offensively and even defensively, but when we’re in good form we look pretty good.”
“Even when things aren’t going well, we always talk about it. It’s when things aren’t going well that we play great.”
The Vikings have a significant number of sophomores and juniors on their roster, with only three seniors playing in the starting lineup: Vada Allen, Taylor Barnes and Marissa Rebenski.
Rebenski, a right-handed hitter, is part of a trio of seniors that will have to help guide a young team through a long season.
“It’s really great. We voted for captains and as one of them, it’s great to be able to lead this team. The girls are really good and the coaching staff is great.” “We trust each other, we know each other really well, if someone’s down, we know how to get them back up,” Rebensky said. “That kind of chemistry is great.”
“[Last year]showed us how well we work together as a team because we didn’t lose too many guys last year. I think we work really well together. All the practice we’ve had is helping us lead into this senior year. (The seniors) talk about it all the time. It’s sad because it’s our last year, but we all want to play our hardest because it’s our last year.”
Junior setter Shelby Bragg is one of the key members of LaBrae’s offensive and defensive units, leading the team in assists (95) while also being one of the leaders in aces.
“I love this team. We’ve worked really hard in the preseason to get to this point, so I think we’re off to a pretty good start. We’ve got a lot more to work on, but so far I think we’re feeling pretty good.” “When you’re down 2-0 (against Brookfield) and you can win the next three sets, I think it gives you confidence and gives you an advantage in future matches,” Bragg said.
“It’s a challenge, but it’s fun knowing the hitters play a big role and what sets they like to play and where they like to bowl. Team bonding goes a long way, but just playing with the girls and knowing where they like to play helps a lot.”
Likewise, junior libero Chloe Sanderson, one of the team leaders in digs (94), feels there is a sense of tension this season.
“We were very motivated and wanted revenge this year so we went all out. Everyone came into the game with energy and enthusiasm and wanting to do their best,” Sanderson said.We all get along really well and value teamwork. We go on Keystone Safaris, have picnics, and try to be as friendly as possible.
“It’s nice to know everyone is cheering for me. When I make a save, just cheering them on gives me motivation.”
Sophomore Riley Rowe was one of the top scorers with over 50 kills and added 74 assists and six blocks. Junior Ella Kuzmaul had 11 blocks and Barnes had 56 kills, over 50 assists and nearly 20 aces.
There are still plenty of games remaining, but Kish feels he has a team capable of winning big matches in the hunt for the league title.
“That’s something we’re always striving to achieve. The last time we won a conference title was when I was in high school. We’ve had successful seasons in the past, so that’s definitely on our goal chart. So we’re always striving to see what’s next.” Kish said. “Each game builds on the other, so what can we do better in the long run?”
“We lost to Garfield early on, and I told the girls we were going to lose. As long as we learn from it, there will be wins and losses.”
“We went from there, accepted it, learned from it and moved forward.”
Have an interesting story to share? Email our Sports Department at sports@tribtoday.com and follow us on X (formerly Twitter) @TribChronSports.
Get the latest news from the day and more delivered to your inbox