With four district titles in the past five years, including a 32-win season a year ago, the Bell County Lady Cats have been the dominant program in the 52nd District over that time span.
One big reason for the Lady Cats’ success the past couple of years was their imposing frontline that featured 6-1 Gracie Jo Wilder and 6-3 Kairi Lamb. The duo teamed for over 1,000 kills and 140 blocks last season.
With Wilder and five other seniors from last year moving on, the Lady Cats and coach Shawn Fultz have quite a challenge in front of them if they are to stay on top. Kamryn Burnett and Michaelyn Dye were two other senior starters who graduated.
“Gracie Jo led us offensively last year and was number two defensively. Kamryn led us defensively, and Michaelyn led us in serving. All three were seniors. We’ve had some big shoes to fill,” Fultz said.
Futlz brings back six players, led by Lamb, who had 365 kills and 71 blocks as a sophomore.
“Kairi has improved tremendously,” Fultz said. “She has been a lot of fun to watch this summer.”
Abbi Middleton, a senior, was fourth on the team in digs last year with 180.
“Abbi is one of the two seniors on our team. She does a great job getting to the ball and will lead us defensively,” Fultz said.
Emma Winkler was the team leader in assists last year with 515 as she made an immediate impact as an eighth grader. She also recorded 260 digs, to rank second, and added 97 service aces.
Neveah Allen and Emily Rose, both juniors, should also play key roles. Allen had 290 assists and 28 aces.
“Nevaeh Allen and Emma Winkler both did a great job last year, and I expect nothing less from them this year,” Fultz said. “Emily Rose will start as a defensive specialist.”
Alexis Brown, a sophomore, recorded 98 digs.
“Lexie has worked hard for me and will provide some flexibility that I didn’t have in the past,” Fultz said. “Really, we have had a lot of girls step up and fill roles. I’m excited to see what this season holds.”
In order to stay on top in the district, Fultz knows his Lady Cats must continued to mature and grow as the season progresses.
“We will have to continue to gel together as a team,” Fultz said. “Our defense will be crucial for success. If our less experienced girls can step up and produce, we will be competitive.”