This week we had the pleasure of interviewing the seniors on the volleyball team. Lauren Hardin and Ava Walitt have had a memorable season with a lot of connections and friendships that will be missed.
They both shared their thoughts on how they feel the season went. “I think the season went pretty good for the most part,” said Walitt. Hardin added, “Our chemistry had definitely clicked and the wheel started turning.” A lot of memories and highlights were created throughout their high school volleyball career. “Doing all of the team activities at the beginning of the year has been a highlight for me,” said Hardin. “We went outside and did some fun water stuff. That was a lot of fun.” This is something that the girls did outside of practice to bring that connection between the team. “The team bonding at the beginning of the year has also been a great memory for me. Sometimes we would have these really fun practices where we just only play games.” Hardin shared what team bonding looks like within the volleyball team. “Doing an activity together. We plan our own team dinners and will do a team breakfast if we have an afternoon game on a day we don’t have school.” Walitt shared her memories from the season. “Our highlight from the season was probably making it to state and winning a match,” said Walitt. “My favorite memories from the season were going to the alpaca farm at the Coal Ridge tournament, state, all of our overnighters and all of our practices with Lander.”
All of the memories and highlights that were created between the seniors and the team will last a lifetime. “I am definitely going to miss all of my teammates and my coaches and Lander,” said Walitt. “I am going to miss volleyball, but for the most part it’s the people I will miss.” Hardin added and said, “I am going to miss my freshmen, all of the friends I have made, and the team as a whole. The c-team and jv girls are all so fun, and with all of the freshmen that came in we got to show them what the program is about. I built those connections and I don’t want to break them.”
The girls shared what advice they would give to an incoming athlete. “Go out there, make friends, have fun, and give it your all,” said Hardin. “You may not be the best at it, but as long as you have fun and build connections then it will be a great season.” Walitt said, “Don’t cheat yourself. Work hard, because when you don’t it is hurting you the most. Be a good teammate, don’t talk down to your teammates, and be humble.” Ava Walitt and Lauren Hardin have had an amazing high school volleyball career, making it to state all four years. Their dedication will set new paths. Congratulations girls on a great season!
