Livingston Academy Volleyball looking toward the upcoming season with a focus on defensive tenacity as the program works to replace significant height and experience from its roster.
Volleyball Coach Christie Jenkins said the team displayed a high level of defensive intensity during a recent camp. Jenkins said the squad is currently working to develop its offensive rhythm as daily practices begin.
“I feel like we’re super scrappy this year,” Jenkins said. “Like we’re defensively, we’re we’re pretty good and I know that we’re going to continue to grow and get better.”
Jenkins said the program is adjusting to the loss of multi-year starters who provided nearly six feet of height at the net. Jenkins said the current roster features two sophomores who gained valuable experience as starters during their freshman season.
“I think just like those two girls that are playing this year, like I can already see like a world of difference,” Jenkins said. “Just in their maturity, in their confidence.”
Jenkins said two players participated in travel volleyball during the off-season to improve their skills. Jenkins said the team is currently utilizing a system with two setters to manage the floor.
“I think we’re going to be pretty good,” Jenkins said. “I I mean, I think we have a long way to go, but I do think we’re going to end up being pretty pretty good.”
Jenkins said the roster includes several experienced players including libero Aubree Garrett and senior hitters Mia Hughes and Kate Ford. Jenkins said junior Bella Harris is expected to take on an expanded role this year by playing all the way around the rotation.
“Tatum Melton, she’s a setter back-row player, like those are like those are kids that have quite a bit of experience,” Jenkins said. “Bella Harris, she’s a junior, she played for me last year. She’s playing all the way around this year, like she is like she’s really like strong right now, hitting outside.”
Jenkins said the team participates in community service projects twice a year, including volunteering with Fetch to the Rescue in Cookeville. Jenkins said the players also engage with local preschools in Livingston to introduce younger children to the sport.
“So, I mean, I have the best group of kids,” Jenkins said. “Like, I I mean, I’ve always been blessed to to feel like I’ve got good girls. Um, they’re all very intelligent. I mean, I I can’t I couldn’t ask for a better group of kids.”
