The Lancaster High School girls volleyball team continues their season in Ohio Capital Conference – Buckeye Division play after a big 3-1 OCC win against Reynoldsburg. As the season comes to a close, the seniors are part of a few teams that have played their last games in the current gymnasium. Plans are underway to demolish the old court as the new high school will soon open its doors. LHS head coach Heather Ingram shared highlights of the season, and the seniors reflected on their high school athletic careers.
“The highs of the season are our five-set wins! Each time we have played five sets, we have won,” said Ingram.
LHS senior volleyball players emphasized some of the successes they acquired from their regular season.
“The highlights of my season were the big wins, the team dinners, and all the laughs we shared. Everytime we played with heart, and came together as one team, felt special. Senior night was definitely one of the best moments too,” said Hailey Rings.
“The highlights of this season have been getting close with all the girls on the team. It has been a joy to get to know them all and be able to bond and laugh together all season,” said Lauren Deem.
“The highlight of this season was absolutely senior night. It could not have been more perfect and I would not have changed a thing. All of the seniors played amazing and having lots of friends and family there to support was unforgettable,” said Hannah Smith.
Coach Ingram described the overall team dynamics and their goals for the upcoming season.
“They are fun to be around. They seem to always be laughing. For next season we would love to continue to fight for the OCC,” said Ingram.
As the season came to an end, the seniors shared what it means to be the last ones to ever play volleyball on the LHS gym floor.
“It means more than I can say. I grew up coming to this school for camps and games, always dreaming of being one of the older girls. I would consider myself lucky to have been able to play all four years on the court I dreamed of playing on,” said Smith.
“It’s so special to be the last class ever to play volleyball at LHS before the new school [opens]. It feels like we’re closing one chapter, and leaving a mark in history. Knowing we were part of the final team makes this season even more meaningful,” said Rings.
Ingram and Rings shared how they overcame the challenges faced this season.
“We have dealt with a lot of adversity this year. Injuries have made Kati and I think fast for different line ups,” said Ingram.
“Staying strong when things didn’t go our way. There were times when we struggled, but we always found a way to lift each other up and keep pushing forward. Learning to stay positive through it all made us stronger as a team,” said Rings.
Deem shared what she will always remember and she will miss about playing volleyball in her high school career.
“I will always remember the environment of Gales volleyball. Being able to grow and improve the relationships throughout the program have been so memorable. I will not forget the girls I’ve been able to play with the past four years. I will miss the girls and the team. We’ve grown together so much during this season and been able to come together to play a sport we all love,” said Deem.
