The Lady Eagles volleyball team soared high this playing season! In early November, they achieved their goal by playing in the NCCAA DII Regionals and earning the 2021 South Region title, which qualified them to play on the national level.
“While our goal was to win Regionals, we knew that we had to focus on the small goals first,” said Coach Calyn Ohman. “We talked about the beginning of the season that we want to soar and not coast throughout the season. We kept reminding ourselves that the wins and the losses help us to improve.”
The Lady Eagles ranked #6 at NCCAA DII Nationals as they entered competition. They won the games against Dallas Christian College and Johnson University of Florida and lost against Manhattan Christian College before advancing to semifinals. During their game against Johnson University of Tennessee, the Lady Eagles played hard but were defeated by the opposing team. The team was thankful for the opportunity to play at Nationals this season, placing fourth.
Together, the team had worked to shift their focus away from themselves, and on God. “It’s not about who we play but how we play, and in that [Regional] championship game we didn’t think about who we were playing but how we were playing and Who we are playing for,” said Brittney Hunter (Jr., FL), who was selected to the All-Tournament Team. “We still have a young team this year, and I would consider this a growing year, but each one of us have improved in some way, which has improved the team. The mental focus, teamwork, and commitment on the team is what has driven us to stay focused and reach our goals for this season.”
“I have played volleyball for a long time, but I’ve never had a team or a coach like the one I have now. I’m so proud of my teammates and myself for working day in and day out and never giving up,” said Kenzie Folker (So., FL). “All the hard work, all the homework on the bus, and all the practices were worth it.”
With another playing season wrapped up, the team has seen their fair share of growth, as a team and as part of the Eagles family. “If you have a mindset of always learning, you will always see improvement. And these girls have shown improvement in all areas,” said Coach Ohman. “[They] have tremendous talent. Each one of these girls has contributed some way or another throughout the season. I just love how they all work together as a team.”