As they head toward the final regular-season chapter, The Habersham School’s volleyball team understands what it takes to overcome obstacles and continue their journey to success.
Before this season, Habersham recorded back-to-back GAPPS state semifinal appearances. They also have the distinction of winning four consecutive state titles as well as six GAPPS D-1 state championships in their mere 11 years of existence.
The Patriots know what it takes to win, and they are back on track.
After a 3-0 loss to Brusnwick on September 19, Habersham posted an overall 24-12 record and a 6-2 region mark, good for second place.
Head coach Susan Barry is confident her team can chart their course back to the postseason despite some setbacks.
For the Patriots, it is another season about self-confidence and determination.
“We are continuing to progress while simultaneously learning to overcome injuries,” stressed Barry. “But I remind the girls that these challenges are also opportunities to grow and to learn things about themselves - specifically, that they are stronger than they think.
“God has given them talent, and He is also giving them struggles that will help them mature and gain the confidence to be able to use the talent effectively and in the face of difficulty.”
Unlike some other seasons, the Patriots’ winning ways have been guided by a young and inexperienced cast whose full potential has yet to be fully tapped.
“Our season has been one of growth and improvement,” noted Berry. “We have several players filling varsity roles for the first time, and it has been a process to help them develop the composure and confidence they need to enable them to play to their ability.”
Sophomores Abbey Zellner and Betsy key have been elevated to starting roles at setter and libero respectively due to injuries, and they both have played integral roles.
“Abbey has done a wonderful job and is continuing to improve her skills and get more comfortable in her role with every match,” stated Barry. “Betsy has stepped into the starting libero position and continues to mature and grow in confidence.”
Also in lead roles for the first time are freshman Myla Shippy, juniors Georgia Reed and Brownette Olson, and senior Maddie Viles.
“Myla is playing outside hitter and all six rotations for the first time, and she is just scratching the surface with what she is capable of doing.” added Barry. “Georgia is starting at right side and playing all 6 rotations also for the first time and is doing a great job bringing energy and enthusiasm every day.
“Brownette also is being asked to play all 6 rotations and to be the leader on the court who gathers the team between points and puts them on her back at the end of matches. She is a talented hitter who is in the process of becoming dominant with her serve and growing more comfortable with her defense and passing with every match.
“Maddie anchors the net at the middle blocker spot and is becoming more involved with our offensive attack as Abbey gets more comfortable setting her.”
With plenty of promise ahead, Barry is optimistic her club can make another deep postseason run.
“We have some very good pieces and have been striving throughout this season to become consistent, composed and confident,” stressed Barry. “We are becoming an increasingly competitive team with every match.
“If we can gain the maturity and mental toughness that will enable us to use our tools effectively when it is needed, I think we can make the finals again. I know this group has it in them. It is just a matter of them coming to believe it about themselves.”
Photo Credit: The Habersham School Atheltic Department
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