The volleyball team finished their season with a record of 21-17 after losing to Hereford in a close five-match game. The teams played three times for the opportunity to advance in the playoffs.

“I was very disappointed,” varsity coach Lorrie Hammit said. “We had every opportunity to come away with a win. We played a great first two sets, then relaxed and let it get away from us.”

Even though they lost to Hereford, the Lady Eagles finished season with a winning record and were champions in the Coca-Cola Classic tournament before district.

“We played really well against Frenship and Amarillo High,” Hammit said. “All of the girls were playing hard and giving their best.”

The team graduated eight seniors in May.

“We were a young team this year, and that allowed us to improve from the beginning of the season to the end,” Hammit said. “We improved greatly on our blocking throughout the season.”

During the season, injuries affected the team play and the starting lineup.

“When Taylor Dotson got hurt, the girls all got together and they decided to pick up their game,” Hammit said. “Allison had to fill in as setter and everyone worked hard keep the intensity up.”

Junior varisty coach Sara Morath joined the staff this year. Morath was an All-American volleyball player at West Texas A&M University.

“We are very excited to have Sara coaching here,” Hammit said. “She is a great coach and is somebody that really helps the team.”

Along with getting to know a new coach, team members built relationships throughout the season.

“We had our struggles as a team but ultimately we worked hard and came together,” junior Cali Ray said.

Junior Jacey Kilburn also saw improvedment as the season progressed.

“Toward the end of the season we became more focused and serious about the game,” Kilburn said.

Hammit said she holds high expectations for the team next year.

“District champs,” Hammit said. “It’s going to be a dogfight.”