The volleyball team had a season to remember. Led by seniors Emma Johnson, Alexis Hollis, Becca Heilman and Palmer Bussey, the team was 10-9 and advanced to the playoffs for the first time ever under coach Steve Thomas. The four seniors who have been with the program for their entire high school careers have witnessed a significant change. They had a winless season their freshman year, a four-win season as sophomores and a seven-win season as juniors.
Bussey gives credit for the change in the program to the coaches.
“I have noticed that we are interacting with the coaches a lot more,” Bussey said. “It has led to a lot more success for us on the court because they listen to our suggestions.”
The volleyball team had the opportunity to learn from former U.S. beach volleyball player and North Carolina native Tristy Bittikofer.
“Coach Bittikofer came in over the summer and taught us a lot of new things about volleyball,” Bussey said. “She was very helpful.”
Numerous team members stepped up this season, but many name Hollis as a game changer. Hollis led the team with 67 digs and 23 service aces.
“Alexis has stepped up a lot this year; I have seen more drive in her this season,” Johnson said.
Another player who improved was junior Kadie Snipes. Snipes is described as a well-rounded player who can play any position on the court.
“Kadie has been playing all over the place,” Hollis said. “She has been a great player this year.”
Hollis wants the younger players to remember one thing about volleyball moving forward.
“I want the underclassmen to remember that volleyball is a sport that you play because it is fun and you enjoy it,” Hollis said. “Volleyball should be something that you do because you love it, not because the coaches are making you.”
Thomas has taken notice of not just the senior leadership but also the young talent. This includes the duo of freshman Cera Powell and sophomore Khoury May. The two of them led the team in kills and assists.
“We have a lot of new talent for the future moving forward,” Thomas said. “I am excited to see what the future holds for Cera and Khoury.”
The seniors are thrilled about the legacy they will leave on the volleyball program.
“I want everyone to remember us as the class that created change for Northwood volleyball,” Johnson said.
– By Jailen Leach