This year, the girls varsity volleyball team underwent significant changes in leadership, players and injuries. Amidst these uncertainties, the team came together to have a successful season.
The team was led by juniors Zoe Gillen-Malveaux and Campbell Sims and sophomore Kendall Johnson.
“All of the captains had different roles. I was really good at calming the team down and bringing a sense of stability,” Johnson said.
Last year’s team was comprised of six seniors, four of whom were starters, and their absence has led to the challenge of upholding what they built in terms of team chemistry and talent last year.
“I’ve been [at Greenhill] for 14 years, that was the biggest turnaround that I’ve had,” Head Girls Varsity Volleyball Coach Tatiane Deibert said.
Deibert says the team knew what was expected of them for this year due to the leadership of last year’s seniors.
In addition to being a young team, another challenge faced was multiple season-ending injuries leading up to the Southwest Preparatory Conference championship matches.
Sophomore Layla Esquenazi tore her ACL, and although she left a void on the court, she was able to find a new role as a prominent voice on the bench.
“I’ve always been very into the sport so I have heart and soul in the sport and cheering makes me and the team happy,” said Esquenazi.
Through the challenges faced this season, the team came together to overcome obstacles and create memories during practices, games and bus rides.
“My favorite part of the season was practices because I always had something to look forward to after school,” said Johnson.
The team ended the season with a 19-15 record and a sixth-place finish in SPC.
“They were willing to put in the work and balance different obstacles thrown at them, for such a young team that’s all I can ask for,” said Deibert.
