The final whistle at games has been blown, the impact of this season will be left even after the nets are taken down. The long practices and the shared bus rides home have built a bond that goes beyond a win-loss record. For the seniors, almost this marks the end of a chapter defined by grit and growth. For the returning players, the memories of this season will stay with them. The standards will continue as the season goes on and the wins come along with.
So far this season has been a struggle for our panthers but energy never goes down! According to Bryan Kylie, “For example, after making a crazy play I make sure everyone celebrates, everyone's heads up and I tell them we got the point.” The scoreboard only tells some of their story, players such as Bryan keep the energy and atmosphere while playing positive and a fun game for all players. Bryan is a junior, it is his 3rd season playing and first season playing as caption. Bryan states that if he could go back to the day he was named captain he would tell himself “ It’s not as easy as it sounds, it's a lot of responsibility and you have to be a really good role model and keep everyone in check.” For Bryan being caption is not about the teams performance but how he lead the team with leadership and how he leads the game.
Luke Snider is a senior, he was been on the team for only one season, and he has already making a major impact the team their season. If luke could tell one thing to a freshman who is newer to volleyball it would be “ To always show up to practice and on time, make sure you're always ready.” Throughout the season Luke has met new teammates as well as coaches however the lessons are what has impacted his season, one lesson that has stuck with him was “ always respect everyone around you and listen when someone is trying to help you.” By staying humble and coachable, it has helped him always know how to use his respect and allow him to play the best he can.
In the end, this season was defined by more than just points; it was defined by the people. From the leadership of a junior captain and the respect lead by the senior Luke. The bonds will continue to grow, the lessons made will continue to be shared. The Panthers have a bright on going season ahead of them full of dedication and hard work.
