A good leader is encouraging, confident, flexible, and above all, a role model. The captains of the girls’ varsity volleyball team, Emily Sheffe, Amelia Morris, and Cassie Diehl, share about what it means to be a leader on their team.

The girls’ Thundering Herd are experiencing new coaching this season, Elizabeth Young, the junior varsity coach from the previous year, took over. Together, the ladies are working to rebuild the team. 

Despite having a rough season, their final record standing at 3-15, when asked for a positive takeaway, Sheffe remarks, “It was so much fun, I made so many new friendships, and I think we made a solid foundation for next year.” 

The captains led their team to a victory on senior night, October 11th, beating Red Land High School 3-0 at their very last home game. Their other two wins earlier this season came against Big Spring and another against Red Land. 

Leading up to the win, the girls “like to get hyped up whether that be joking around or dancing we just try to build the morale and keep high energy,” shares senior Amelia Morris. Emily Sheffe, middle/right side hitter, emphasizes Amelia’s point of importance of being a hype-woman for her teammates. 

Leaders are all valued for different reasons, when asked to reflect on themselves, Cassie Diehl, libero/defensive specialist, acknowledges “hard work and dedication” as traits that qualify her for the position.

Being given the title of captain provides immense influence among their peers. Underclassmen on the team look up to these girls on and off the court.

“I hope the underclassmen learn that being on the team means you’re a family, and that at the end of the day, you’re each other’s rocks, and you will be as long as you play together” explains Sheffe. Morris expects that the future squad will work together and overcome challenges. 

The future team is a young one, but they have learned to persevere and shape the team. 

The captains are an abundant help to their coach and team, but they also benefit richly from the opportunity. Diehl feels the role “has given [her] responsibility and has enhanced leadership skill.” Amelia Morris, outside/middle hitter, contributes, noticing “more structure and routine” in her life. 

The Lady Herd may not have finished with a winning record, but they are walking away with success. The volleyball team produces strong leaders and a positive learning environment for all of the players.