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Playing a sport in high school is considered to be one of the most valuable experiences a person can have, made even better if the team and players excel at it. Winning conferences, championships and breaking school records are not easy tasks, but that is what the girls varsity volleyball team has done; especially with the help of two players in particular: seniors Austin Knight and Samantha Bowron.
This past season, the girls went all the way to the regional semifinals, finishing first in their district with an overall record of 20-9. Knight and Bowron had exceptionally great seasons, earning all-time school records for most blocks for Knight and second most kills for Bowron.
“I feel immensely proud of all the achievements this team has made, considering we went from not being a very good team before my freshman year to being a top contender in the region for the past four years,” Knight said. ”
But with success comes sacrifice, and sometimes regret. The girls worked and trained tirelessly to build up their notable reputation as great volleyball players within the county, costing them some parts of the typical teenager lifestyle.
“Sacrifices that I feel were made in building the success of our program definitely were in the social aspect, as our team spent several hours in the gym working to be better,” Bowron said. “The only thing I would do differently is don’t take it too seriously. I wish that I spent more time being a kid rather than stressing about volleyball.”
One of the most unique aspects of the team was the father-daughter duo of Knight and her dad, varsity coach Allan Knight.
“Having my father be my coach for the past four years has had its challenges, but it has also been the greatest blessing in my life,” Knight said. “It made me better at my game because of the constant feedback he gives me so I can execute my skills better, and the bond that we have together just makes playing much more fun overall, which is the secret to having a successful team.”
Although all good things must come to an end, these two girls are looking forward to the future. Both Knight and Bowron are pursuing volleyball in college, with Bowron committed and Knight entertaining offers.
“It feels a bit sad that my high school career is over because it was so fun and such an important piece of my life, but now I’m excited to see what college volleyball has in store for me.” Knight said.
