Middle School Volleyball

Now in her sixth season as the Johnson County Middle School volleyball head coach, Mechelle Arney has been pleased with the progress of this year's team during the early going. Assisting Arney on the sidelines this year is Abby Cornett, who has provided a tremendous amount of help and support in guiding the team's strong start. Four varsity starters – Lilly Bendon, Paislee Evans, Kaylee Mahala and Faith Roberts – are entering their third season with the team. "Their dedication and hard work during the summer have made a noticeable impact on their performance," Arney said. Co-captain Lilly Bendon and Paislee Evans are versatile weapons. "Lilly's a formidable presence at the net, known for her powerful serve that challenges opponents," Arney said. "Her maturity and court awareness make her a key player. Paislee is a versatile athlete who consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, asking insightful questions and striving to excel in every play, rarely allowing the ball to get past her." Kaylee Mahala and Faith Roberts play key roles for the Longhorns. "Kaylee has shown significant improvement, particularly at the net, as she is actively working to refine her blocking skills," Arney said. "Her overall development this season is promising. Faith has focused extensively on fundamental skills over the summer, resulting in a strong serve and effective net play and is one to keep an eye on. "As these players enter their third season with the JCMS squad, the team's outlook is very optimistic, especially with second-year player Kaitlin Dickens. Kaitlin's strong net presence and challenging serve add great value to the team. Once she gains more confidence, she is expected to become a more dominant player than she already is." The roster is bolstered by returning players Serena Wentworth, Brooklyn Taylor and Karlie Lipford. "They have also demonstrated solid performance this season," Arney said, "while Brooklyn Woodell, a new addition to the varsity squad, is adapting quickly." Johnson County was 4-3 through Aug. 30. The JCMS junior varsity volleyball team is off to a 6-1 start this season, showcasing talented depth across the roster. Arney attributes this early success to the local volleyball youth league, noting that players are entering the program with well-developed fundamentals. "This strong foundation," she said, "has significantly elevated the team's overall skill level." Shiloh Simcox, who is in her second year on the squad, has had a hot start. "Shiloh Simcox is delivering a standout performance," Arney said. "She has become an impactful presence at the net with several key blocks, while also showcasing a much more consistent and reliable serve." Ella Phillips and fellow sixth grader Samantha Guzman are ahead of their years while sharing setter duties. "Both are playing with the poise of seasoned veterans," Arney said. "They excel at reading the court and executing precise sets." Paris Davis, a seventh-grade newcomer, has quickly made an impact with her defensive skills. "She possesses a remarkable knack for keeping rallies alive and making plays when they appear finished," Arney said. Kynzleigh Blevins has been effective at the net. "Despite managing a minor ankle injury," Arney said, "her resilience and toughness have allowed her to compete effectively." Ava Hodge is an experienced returnee. "She earned significant playing time as a setter after dedicating substantial effort to her training over the summer," Arney said. Setter Mia Crews has been invaluable in a variety of roles. "Serving as a setter," Arney said, "Crews provides a powerful, positive influence on the squad. Her excellent attitude and energy consistently elevate her teammates on the court." Danielle Dickens and Ava Trivette are progressing steadily. "Danielle Dickens is a player to watch," Arney said. "Her strong work ethic on and off the court is paying off, with her serve growing more powerful with every match. Ava Trivette shows steady improvement each game, standing out for her work ethic and her willingness to dive and sacrifice her body to keep the ball in play." Two other sixth graders, Taylin Snyder and Abigayle Triplett, would appear to have bright futures. "Taylin Snyder excels at reading the ball and managing transitions," Arney said. "She is a natural motivator with a commendable work ethic. Abigayle Triplett's showing continuous growth. She is applying herself fully and gaining valuable confidence on the floor with each passing game." There are several home games left, and Arney and Cornett would like to encourage community members to come out and support the Lady Longhorns.