Volleyball is more than just a sport for Clay County Bulldog Reagan Cherry; it’s a family tradition.
Cherry’s love for the game started in sixth grade. During that time, Cherry would watch her grandfather play the sport she would end up loving. Cherry’s grandfather started playing as a setter initially before changing over to an attacker looking to spike the ball. At age 72, he continues to play at a location supporting co-ed play. Cherry said her grandfather coached her every step of the way, telling her to think smart and always pay attention.
“It took me a couple of years to understand what he meant by that,” Cherry said. “But now that I’m older, I completely understand that the more you pay attention, the better you’re going to do.”
Cherry’s grandfather introduced her to the court firsthand taking her to co-ed games across the state, from Glasgow to Cookeville, where she honed her skills alongside him.
“I kind of just watched him play and wanted to do it,” Cherry said. “And he just put me into [volleyball.]”
Cherry became a setter herself for the Bulldogs when she joined the varsity team. Cherry said the position was one that became natural to her very quickly.
“I was always small so I knew I would not be a hitter,” Cherry said. “I just took a liking for it and always wanted to do it.”
This season, Cherry’s leadership helped guide the Bulldogs to a 13-5 regular season. She earned All-District honors for the first time and concluded her high school career in the district semifinals.
