From one win in 2022 to five last fall, the Middlesboro volleyball program is headed in the right direction as Morgan Mills enters her third season at the helm.
“We are focusing on getting our fundamentals down. We just started a middle school program in 2023 and that will go a long way in getting these girls more prepared for the sport,” Mills said.
With five starters back and only two seniors graduating last year, the Lady Jackets should be in position to continue improving.
“Success for us this year will be us working as a cohesive team with minor errors of our own,” Mills said.
Julia Ramirez, a junior, was first on the team last year in service aces with 52, assists with 88 and blocks with 15 while adding 11 kills.
“She’s an incredible player. She’s not the height most people think of when they think volleyball, but she runs the net just as good as my tall girls,” Mills said. “She’s quick and works hard.
Sudie Howerton, a junior, and Keylee Ayers, a senior, tied for the team lead last year with 51 sets played. Ayers was first on the squad in kills with 45 and third in aces with 27. Howerton was second in assists with 49 and fourth in kills with 25.
“Sudie is one of my best setters, but she can also hit. One of the goals this year to create chances for her to play as hitter as well as setter,” Mills said. “Keylee is a great server and plays the net well. She will be a weapon for us this year.
Maleah Crenshaw, a sophomore, led the team in kills with 46 and in digs with 25 while placing second in aces with 35.
“Maleah is dedicated,” Mills said. “She always wants in the gym to practice. She has a lot of hustle, too. She is a dynamic player.”
Leah Spencer, a junior, was third in kills with 31 and second in blocks with four and digs with 17.
“Leah has improved so much through the years with her hitting and blocking. I look forward to seeing the points she can put up this season,” Mills said.
Alysa Goins, a junior, added eight digs and seven aces.
“Alysa is constantly asking me what more she can do. She is a consistent server and passer. I look forward to seeing her continue to grow this season,” Mills said.
Alyssa Hackworth, a senior who didn’t play last season, should also play a big role.
“She is a great player, and I’m excited to see her back on the court,” Mills said.
Mills hopes to build on last season’s improvement and help the Lady Jackets become more of a factor in the 52nd District race
“My goal is to do better every year. I want to get to having an overall winning season and moving up in district,” she said. “The girls are making the right moves. Hopefully, we can show it.”
