Back in 7th grade, the Lady Raiders learned Volleyball basics like rotating, passing, and hitting. Now, as 8th graders, they fine-tuned their fundamentals and moved on to playing positions, such as middle blocker, setter, or libero.

Genessis Monterroza built on her Volleyball skills by practicing on her own and with her team.

“I’ve learned a lot more now than I did in 7th grade,” Genessis said. “My advice to newer players is to never give up and always work hard. It’s never easy to get to the same place where others want to go, too.”

Noelia Parga improved her footwork and passing, setting, and spiking skills.

“I would advise younger players to believe and focus on Volleyball, set goals, and work on those every day,” Noelia said. “Practice is how you play.”

Even after spraining her ankle four weeks before their first game, Essence Wilkerson continued to improve in all of her skills.

“I now play for Fort Smith Juniors Volleyball Club, and they helped me skills wise” Essence said. “To younger players, I say don’t give up and always keep going. Give 100% all the time and practice, practice, practice!”

Elle Ceaser felt she worked harder in and out of practice than she did in 7th grade.

“This helped me with becoming captain and an outside hitter,” Elle said. “My advice is to enjoy the game as much as you can before it’s over and have patience with the coaches and your teammates.”

Taleah Watson built her skills by having a better mindset.

“My attitude also improved, and it showed on the court,” Taleah said. “I would tell younger players to trust the process and don’t worry about mistakes. Just worry about what you can do and move on to the next play.”

Yarely Centeno Iturriaga built up her serving skills.

“Last year, I could never serve,” Yarely said. “My suggestion is to always try your best.”

Anahi Martinez also improved her serves and learned to receive better.

“My advice is to have fun and live it while you can because time passes fast,” Anahi said.

Even though she did not play Volleyball in 7th grade, Angelica Brown has advice to offer fellow new players.

“You will have rough days, but don’t let that stop you from doing what you love because it will all be worth it in the end.”

Coach Loyd appreciated how, even though several of the girls had never played Volleyball before, they were still coachable and worked hard.

“This was evident in the growth they showed throughout the season,” Coach Loyd said.

Other than building on their skills, these Lady Raiders formed great memories of their final middle school season.

Going to away games and 8th grade night were Elle’s favorite moments.

“The bus rides were really fun,” Elle said. “Also, 8th grade night was special because I got to walk with my parents.”
Beating Ramay was Angelica’s favorite moment.

“Our old Volleyball coach (Mrs. Hyne) and our principal (Dr. Johnson) moved there, so it meant a lot to me,” Angelica said. “The team showed them that we could beat Ramay.”

Genessis loved the summer tournament because it was so fun and energetic.

“We played lots of teams and only lost to two teams!” Genessis said.

Taleah liked getting to bond while eating out at Cici’s after their last game.

“We laughed over moments that happened during the season,” Taleah said.

Blasting music before games was something Yaretzy Centeno Iturriaga enjoyed most.

“We would sing together,” Yaretzy said.

Noelia preferred scrimmaging.

“It was fun and exciting in the way that we would just bring joy to each other,” Noelia said.