Phil 4:13 was the theme verse for the volleyball program this year, and seeing the season unfold and learn what some of those “All things” included was truly a journey of faith. Challenges seemed to come on many fronts this fall: an almost totally new coaching staff; a flooded gym that became unplayable after the first week of practice, resulting in away games the entire first half of the season; a return to the “blue gym” for games the second half; a practice schedule that defined “flexibility” in a whole new way. These challenges provided many opportunities to find our strength truly in Him. It was with much grace and resolve, and sometimes much needed humor, that the 2011 Volleyball season was played out.

But, played out it was! Faced with one of its most difficult schedules ever, competing against several regional and state qualifying teams, the Royals finished the season as District Semi-finalists with a record of 16-8. The team was led by its one senior, Captain Kelsey Widdoes, who led serving and setting for the Royals, consistently establishing the tone and focus of the match with her skill and leadership. Junior KC Locke teamed with Kelsey to do an outstanding job of setting, and her powerful serving led the team in aces. The Royals had tremendous strength at the net this year with Juniors Kacie Moore and MJ Horth, and Sophomores Anna Halley and Morgan Lowenkamp. That offense was supported in an equally outstanding way by defensive specialists, Junior Maggie Risma and Jasmine Jones. Combining their talents, the Royals ran an offense that proved exciting to watch and competitive for every opponent they faced.

Certainly, a highlight of the season was the Rally for the Troops game played against league rivals Tusky Valley. Not only was the night a big success in raising money for the Wounded Warrior Project, it proved to be the night that CVCA Volleyball defeated the Trojans for the first time in school history! The season came to an end in facing a tough opponent in Beaumont (eventual Regional Champs at press time), but the Royals did not go down without a great fight, taking the first set of the match. There is certainly much more exciting volleyball ahead for the Royals, and more to be experienced of the “All Things” our Lord has yet to show us, of His strength, through our willing lives.