The Parkway South girls volleyball program is buzzing with excitement this season, and it’s all thanks to an influx of freshmen making a big impact across both varsity and junior varsity teams.
This season all three Patriot volleyball teams won their conference.
For the first time in the past four years, freshmen now make up a quarter of the varsity roster and half of the junior varsity roster. This unexpected “freshman takeover” is shaking up the program and giving coaches, teammates, and fans plenty to cheer about.
“The young players bring a fresh energy and hunger that inspires the entire team. Based on what I see right now, I do think that this class will impact the program in a positive way, for sure. They’ve already proven to be really hard working and positive, while also being dedicated,” varsity head coach Shannon Lesko said. “They are also just fun to be around. But time will tell on what makes them unique.” Junior varsity coach Mitch Stevens shared. “In general, they just have a lot of experience already, skill set, positive attitude, and they’re willing to work hard.”
Varsity senior Parker Rakers agrees with her coach.
“It’s exciting to see so many freshmen contributing right away. They’re learning fast, and their enthusiasm is contagious,” she said.
With two of the freshmen on varsity, plus 1 freshman swinger, and 5 freshmen on JV, the program looks positioned for sustained success, according to Lesko.
“These players are gaining valuable experience now, to help position themselves to become the leaders of the team in the years ahead,” she said. “This is definitely the best group of freshmen we’ve had since the seniors’ class. When the seniors came in as a freshman class they were joined by people who were newer to volleyball, but this class of freshmen came in with a lot of experience already.”
JV Coach Mitch Stevens also commented on the freshmen and their contributions.
“Our freshmen are developing quickly. They’re showing great promise and a strong work ethic that will benefit the entire program,” he said.
Kelley Stricker is one of the two freshmen on varsity this year, along with Marlena Faulstich. Olivia Saddler also swings on the varsity and JV teams. Stricker leads the varsity team in kills with 163 at press time.
“I want to be someone that’s very hard working, and a driven player, but also someone who is constantly trying to lift up our teammates and win,” Stricker said.
