V
olleyball Senior Night is one of the most important events for any volleyball team member who is a senior and nears graduation. It is an opportunity to recognize their hard work, dedication, and commitment to the volleyball team throughout their four-year High School career. The feeling during Senior Night is one of excitement and hope, along with a bit of sadness because of the upcoming goodbyes.

Photo courtesy of Gordon Stevens

The event has a pre-game ceremony in which seniors are honored before their teammates, coaches, family, and friends. This evening activity started with the introduction of senior players, each paired with a touching speech regarding their achievements in sports and school. Coaches and teammates usually tell stories showing the character and the efforts of each senior, bringing both smiles and tears from the audience. They are given gifts, flowers, and other presents that show appreciation for the commitment of the team. This is not a speech to be done out of formality, but it shows a wrap-up of years of experiences shared in winning, losing, struggling, and growing up together.

Family members escorted their seniors onto the court as they were recognized individually. The first senior who was introduced was Shelby Stevens. Shelby was escorted by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Stevens. Shelby is an outside hitter and has been a member of the Varsity Volleyball team for the past two years. Megan McDonough was the next senior. She was escorted by her parents Mr. Chris McDonough and Dr. Lisa McDonough. Megan is a middle hitter who has been a member of the Varsity Volleyball team for the past two years. Cami Abel was escorted third by her parents Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Abel. Cami is a volleyball team captain and has been a member of the Varsity Volleyball team for the past three years. Cami also plans to continue her volleyball career at the collegiate level. Last but not least, Hannah Baker was escorted by her parents Mr. and Mrs. Jake Baker. Hannah is a volleyball team captain and she has been a member of the volleyball team for the past four years.

This recognition is a testament to how much their support has meant to the athletes during early morning practices, the craziness of travel plans, and the stress of competition. It is that touching moment that shows the love and support given to players every parent would want and show, and more importantly, the teamwork in every success.

But the match is not as crucial as the feelings of this night. The game is one more opportunity for seniors to show their skills, and to bring years of effort into a bright show of talent and teamwork. It is every serve, spike, and block with more energy and emotion, as if it were to make this moment unforgettable for everyone present. Regardless of the game's outcome, this night was about celebrating achievements and cherishing the journey rather than focusing solely on victory.

More than just a game, this Senior Night bridged the gap between the past and the future. It was and is an opportunity for seniors to reflect on how they have grown from their inexperienced freshman days into experienced athletes who are ready to accept new roles and challenges.