Floor-pounding music, animated conversation, and the thrill of excitement filled the gymnasium’s air last Tuesday, October 3. For onlookers and athletes alike, the evening was one to remember. Adorned with flower bouquets, gift baskets, and necklaces upon necklaces, each girl was welcomed with a specially chosen song blasting in the background. The roaring crowd cheered on their daughters, sisters, and friends for what would be close to the end of their high school journey. 

   No matter the sport, the bond between teammates is a special one, created through the hours spent together during long practices, the highlights of their wins, and the lows of their struggles. Above all, being a part of a team like volleyball teaches resilience, teamwork, and sportsmanship. For Annah Legaspi (12), who has been a part of the volleyball team for the past two years, she recalled the sport with affection: “It’s more than just playing. You get to know everybody, and it’s truly like a family.” Legaspi described her experience on the team as one that has helped positively shape her throughout high school, teaching her how to adapt to new things and people— as well as how to deal with conflict. “You meet so many new people and so many new personalities that you get to adapt to things. You learn how to deal with conflict [whether it be] with coaches or a certain team,” she explained. 

   Karin Gargus (12) shared the sentiment, stating, “I think my favorite part is how great the community is. Everyone gets along so well on the team that it’s just so fun to be a part of.” 

   However, the night was bittersweet as well as special. Legaspi reminisced, saying, “It was emotional because we’re seniors, and it’s one of the last few moments we’ll be playing with each other. But it’s also exciting because we get to share that night together.”

   Though girl’s volleyball season might not be over, the night was no less of a sweet goodbye to the 2024 seniors.