Lost in the Net

Lost in the Net

Mckinley Tech v. St.John's competing at States 

Major adjustments are difficult for individuals  to overcome, but  drastic changes  for a team can impact an entire season. Starting off the season with the possibility of not having a coach is something Mckinley Tech's girls’ volleyball team had to endure. “ We were receiving mixed messages from past players and the athletic director, so we weren't clear what was going on. We didn't even know if we would even be able to play.”,  captain Andrea Cheek said. Veterans of the team continued to keep a positive mindset as the season vastly approached. Eager to meet this new coach the players were directed to the schools Spanish classroom where they spotted a petite woman with an eye catching pregnant belly. “ when I found out we were going to have a pregnant teacher as a coach I was a bit skeptical.”, Senior Erica Jones stated. What the team didn't know was that this “short,pregnant lady” as affectionately stated by the team had the drive and athleticism that could lead them to the championships.  

“This is new school for me I don't know the players or the students.However i have a passion for volleyball and the sports and leadership.” said coach Gatling

When I met the girls we had a rough beginning just about personality differences. The ability to be coachable or the willingness to be coachable.”

The season had come along and the team had gained back their confidence and triumphed through the season ultimately making it to the playoffs.

“There’s been a lot of change with the team’s chemistry. And how you guys have to work together, communication on the court.”

The shift between the team was definitely evident, but needed in order to push harder and motivate the players. Individually there were numerous personality differences. For the majority of the team this would be their last year playing so it was now or never. On the other hand there were players who have never held a volleyball let alone played on a team. “As long as they stick together communication stick together they can win championships and move onto states”, Lester predicted

And that's exactly what they did.

  The players worked hard, played even harder and went on to play in states. Ignoring all the doubts and played the best game they could.