Counts, Neal set to be recognized

The Lady Eagles will look to cap off their strong volleyball season on senior night against the Minarets Mustangs. Seniors Celeste Counts and McKensy Neal will be recognized for their hard work in the FC gym before the 5:30 game, Oct. 19.

This year the volleyball team was led by new head coach Larry Maddox and Kit Maddox. The father and son dual led a team that went 13-13-1 to a team that is currently 18-9-1. Their only league loss was to the Mustangs in their previous matchup. 

Both Counts and Neal have been playing volleyball for a combined total of 15 years. They both love the bonding time with their teammates and all the fun they had throughout their high school career.

“I have been playing volleyball for nine years,” Counts said. “My favorite thing about volleyball is defense because I like to pass the ball and it’s fun to help set up plays. My favorite memory from high school volleyball was when I dove for a ball and had a perfect one-armed pass to one of my teammate and we won the point.”

Neal loves watching her teammate grow closer together and towards God.

“I have been playing volleyball for six years,” Neal said. “This will be my second year on varsity volleyball at FC. My favorite thing about volleyball is watching my team grow together to be the amazing girls and individuals. One of my favorite memory from volleyball was when I hit a girl in the face.”

Kayla Vanderlinden, ‘20, has learned a lot through the older girls especially from the seniors.

“The seniors have helped me get through hard times and I know I can count on them for anything,” Vanderlinden said. “They have also helped me grow in my relationship with Christ. They show me how to have a positive look on life, and I love them so much for this.”

 The Eagles will finish off their season with two more away games against Caruthers HS and Riverdale HS. Go out and support your Lady Eagles on senior night, Oct. 18.

For more volleyball articles, read New coaches bring expertise to volleyball. For more articles, read Calvin Crest counselors muse over 2nd-year experience.

This author can be reached via twitter @JohnMonke and via email: John Monke.