The volleyball season kicked off with a tournament on September 14, 2024. Under the leadership of Coach Alberto Ramos, the varsity team experienced a strong season. Captains Kimora Coleman and Skyler Starchman played crucial roles in motivating their teammates and leading with a never-give-up attitude.
Seniors Notable Beyond the Captains:
- Amina Jukic
- Kailey Vasquez
- Stephanie Gonzalez
- Uwezo Pendeleo
- Abigail Mendoza
- Leslie Morales
During an interview, we asked Coach Ramos about any significant awards or accomplishments for individuals or the team. He responded, “Mikaela Blanchett holds a record for consecutive service points scored against the opposing team.” The team’s standout moments included a significant home victory against Tempe High and two consecutive wins over Coronado High. They also faced a challenging away game against Yuma, but Cortez ultimately secured the win.
Amina Jukic stood out as a great middle blocker, effectively blocking many challenging hits. Captain Kimora Coleman shared, “The season was great. It was amazing to play alongside familiar faces while also welcoming new teammates.” For Kimora, playing with friends added a special dimension to the sport, making them feel like a second family. She will miss the memories created both on and off the court throughout the season.
Senior Skyler Starchman, who has been a part of the varsity volleyball team for all four years of high school, expressed that she would do it all over again if given the chance. She acknowledged some pressure, but it was manageable for her. Having the same coach each year allowed her to build a strong relationship, establish a routine, and focus on skill improvement. On team dynamics, she noted the mixed grade levels, especially during her freshman year, but emphasized that teamwork remained strong. Her message to prospective players is, “Just do it! It’s easy and fun, and you can always leave if it’s not for you.”
Overall, each player poured their heart into the game, and their collective determination to succeed will always be a part of their legacy.