Middle school volleyball wraps up the season

The John C Thomas Middle School volleyball team wrapped up their 8-week season on October 9th with their last league championship game. This was a big year of growth and building for the team of 19 girls. With eight strong players moving to the freshman level of play this fall, and nine young 6th grade players to replace them, the season was about developing skills as an individual and learning to play as a team.

The team struggled to pull out consecutive wins with a season record of 1-10 for both the A and B teams. Regardless of the win record, the team made incredible improvements and growth throughout the season, chalking up big wins in teamwork and skill building. Middle school success depends much on the ability to serve the ball to control the game, which was the largest learning curve this season. This was also the area of biggest growth, as the serve average improved much over the season.

The team celebrated with a Dominos pizza party on their last game night, in conjunction with an awards ceremony to recognize team dedication and personal performance. Notable awards went to Adalynne Ogle who was recognized as the "Team Ace," for her serving; Arelyn Stephens was the team "Lion Heart"; the "Hustle and Grit Award" went to Macie Helms-Masterson; "Outstanding Team Leadership" went to Eloise Plank; "Outstanding Attitude" went to Ava Mendez; "Most Improved" went to Adella Keys and the "Team MVP" was Harper Hurley.

The middle school Lady Mules were coached by Jamie Brown and Kami Gray. They accompanied the growing Mule team to eight away games and hosted five home games. The coaches want to extend their appreciation to the fans that travel far and wide to cheer on our team and be supportive in the stands.