Lady Wolves volleyball kicks off

The Lady Wolves volleyball team is gearing up for its competitive season. Despite the complications the COVID-19 pandemic caused to schools throughout the country, Green River High School is ready to get out on the courts and play.

According to Rikki Shantz, head coach, the team has 24 players total, two of them being returning seniors and two being returning varsity. The team is largely made up of sophomores this year, which is something new to the GRHS coaches.

With the lack of experience this year’s team has, there were some initial concerns, but after getting into practice much of those concerns have eased.

During the first week of practice, the coaches had the athletes focus on skill growth and performance. It is vital that everyone gets on the same page before the competition season starts moving fast.

Shantz said the most important thing to establish, especially in such a young team, is positive energy and competitive spirit. Since there is not a lot of varsity experience, it is also important to develop and grow as a team.

Shantz considers herself lucky to be permitted to compete this season, as there was much discussion from administrators as to whether it was safe enough to play this year. However to maintain COVID-19 guidelines, Shantz, along with other coaches have to wear masks the majority of practice.

Students are also required to wear masks whenever a 6-foot distance is not attainable. Athletes must also have their temperature checked everyday before practice. The schedule is different as well, as much of the first tournaments have been cancelled.

“I am just honored and happy to be in the gym together” Shantz said during an interview.

The athletes and coaches are all excited for the season and are optimistic about the outcome. Everyone one on the courts has a good attitude and is doing their part to create a positive environment. Of course with the current pandemic situation there, is always the worry of not having a complete season, but the team is doing their best to focus on moving forward.

There is an incredible amount of drive in the GRHS volleyball team and they plan to let their hard work speak for itself.