The girls’ volleyball teams at Apopka High School have an unmatched, unwavering spirit. Despite facing tough opponents and challenges this year, the girls’ teams have shown incredible resilience and determination on the court this season. The season began in early August and ended in early October. The girls’ varsity team had a record of 5-15 this season. The girls’ JV team had a record of 0-3. Although both teams had tough seasons, the girls persevered and fought till the end. I had the honor of interviewing members from the varsity and JV teams about their experience of being on the team and their love for volleyball.

When asked how long the interviewees had been playing volleyball, they all stated that they had played since middle school and that their love of the sport started then. When questioned why they had decided to play volleyball, the girls said it looked fun, so they tried and loved it. After that, we requested knowledge of how they warm up, and they gave insight into their routine. Sophomore and JV volleyball player Madeline Sherrer explained, “We will always ‘pepper,’ which is when we pass with a partner. Right before we start the game, we huddle as a group and encourage each other to play our best and tell each other our observations from watching the other team warm up so we can use it to think more about where we aim the ball and such.” From this response arises the question of why they warm up this way. The question of why they warm up the way they do might come to mind. Girls’ volleyball Head Coach, Coach Watts, was able to tell us why. “The purpose of the team warm-up is to get their muscles warm and loose so that they do not hurt themselves during the game. We stretch, then try to warm-up further with game-like drills to get them moving like they would in a game scenario.” This routine gets the girls pumped up, excited, and ready to face their opponents. 

The Blue & White next discussed with the girls the challenges the teams often face. They gave their opinions on some of the strongest competitors they went against, as well. Sophomore and JV player Olivia Ramos told us, “Moving our feet is a big challenge, especially for the team that I played on. We also struggled with getting to the ball because we would stop in the middle instead of continuing to move. The way that we can overcome this is by practicing serve-receive. We need to practice more, getting behind the ball and getting low.” She also mentioned issues about her teammates’ attitudes, as the girls tend to get in their heads a lot before games. It can cause lashing out and bad energy among the team, which is a big issue. When asked which team was their toughest, the interviewees responded Lake Highland. They said this because the girls were talented, passionate, and well-experienced. This goes to show that there are a lot of struggles and hardships faced in the game of volleyball, both physically and mentally.

After this portion of the interview, we next discussed their favorite part about playing, the qualities needed to be a successful player, and where they wanted the team to be by the end of the season. Overall, the girls stated that their favorite part about playing was bonding with other girls around the same age while playing the sport they love. When asking Head Coach Watts about her favorite part about coaching, she said, “Definitely getting to know the girls. I love to watch their skills grow throughout the season.” Next, Senior and Varsity player Addison Evans gave insight into what she believes every volleyball player should have to be successful in the game as well as on a team. “A coachable attitude and not being afraid to fail and try again are important things needed to be a good volleyball player and team player. It is something that I have learned over the years that is a necessary attribute to be successful in the sport and life.” The other interviewees also said they believe confidence, perseverance, good coordination, and good sportsmanship are necessary qualities for a volleyball and team player. Next, we discussed where the girls wanted the team to be by the end of the season. Sophomore and Varsity player Brianna Young told us what she wanted. “By the end of the season, I just wanted the team to act and behave more like a team. I wanted us all to see the improvement everyone had made and to look back on our growth.” With that said, the team hit a block due to a lack of communication, teamwork, and good attitudes. It is something the girls all said needs to be worked on for a better season next year, which is their goal. 

With an excitement to do better next season, the girls are beaming with energy and are looking forward to exceeding their current reputation next year. This, without fail, will surely push them to success. Some final thoughts from Coach Watts are, “Everybody should try out for volleyball. It is the most fun sport around! Boys try out in March, and girls try out in August.”