ITG Next speaks with Calvary Christian volleyball head coach Kim Whitney about the Warriors’ 2021 state championship-winning team and takes a look ahead at the 2022 season.
Q: Coming off a state championship a year ago, what are your thoughts on this Calvary Christian volleyball team and what you could accomplish entering the 2022 season?
A: Every year brings together a unique team that has their own set of strengths. We had a lot of struggles last season and were able to build on them by making big strides late in the season that eventually earned us the opportunity to play in the state championship. This year will be no different than any other year with discovering our strengths and then working to capitalize on them as best we can. Our accomplishments are in the day-to-day progression, getting a little bit better with each practice and each match we play. We will have some new players joining the team, so building the team bond and unity will be a big focus, developing players in positions, and developing our leadership will all be important for us this season.
Q: What do you think you will miss most about the 2021 Warriors team?
A: What I love the most about our teams at Calvary is the team bond and chemistry. Their love for each other and willingness to sacrifice for the greater good of the team has always been what I love the most and miss the most each season.
Q: Taylor Parks was among the team leaders in assists last season and was awarded as the Class 3A Dairy Farmers Player of the Year. What are your expectations for her entering her junior season?
A: Taylor has an IQ that is off the charts. She understands the game at a very high level and works very hard every day to grow and get better. Taylor will be moving into more of a leadership role, which she had already stepped into last season and had tremendous success. She will now be an upperclassman and will take on that role more so this year, which is exciting.
Q: Who are some other names that could play key roles for this Calvary Christian volleyball team this season?
A: Returning starters Morgen Talley (who also won the 3A state championship in softball) middle/right side; Ava Bonin, libero/ds; and Surina Spragg, middle/right. Returning players Emarie Straw, OH; and Aubrey Schoenbaum, OH. We also bring in a few transfers that we are excited to learn more about as we get to tryouts.
