2022 Fall Preview: Sparta Volleyball

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By Chris Parker

Sparta volleyball has big expectations coming off a 12-10-6 season. Last year was the first time the program finished over .500 since winning 29 matches and a district title in 2014.

Five key varsity players in Megan Brown, Natalie Wilks, Hailey Bumgarner, Mya Fulton, and Averi Leyland return.

Brown was a first-team all-conference selection as a junior.

“Megan is kind of our utility player,” Sparta head coach Rachel Kirkman said. “(She is) very athletic, but also very knowledgeable about the game. She typically plays outside hitter and middle back, but might get a chance to mix it up with some setting this season.”

Natalie Wilks was a second-team all-conference selection last year.

“Natalie is a strong hitter in all three front row positions so she could potentially play in a variety of spots for us,” Kirkman said.

Bumgarner played outside hitter last year, but may see more time in a defensive role this year.

Fulton played libero last year.

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“Mya gained significant experience last season playing libero for us,” Kirkman said. “She learned a lot about the game from that position, but she also brings an incredible energy to the floor. She is a valuable asset to us because of her personality.”

Leyland played right side last year and will return to that position this year with the potential of playing outside hitter.

Emma Jemes played both varsity and junior varsity last year. She is a strong passer who has the ability to play multiple positions.

Seniors Rylea York and Brooke Tennison along with sophomores Caitlyn Norris and Penelope Hansen are key newcomers this year.

“Caitlyn and Penny both got a little varsity time last year, so they have some experience at this level, but both girls will probably play a vital role in our lineup this year. Penny puts up a great block and has really been working on being a more dominant threat offensively. Caitlyn is just an all-around athlete that loves the game of volleyball and is always wanting to get better. She is going to be fun to watch this year and the next couple of years,” Kirkman said. “Rylea took a year off last year, but returns with excitement to play. She has been working hard this summer. Brooke was a JV player last year but is an aggressive player no matter where she is on the court.”

Defense will be a hallmark for the 2022 version of the Sparta volleyball program.

“I believe our biggest strength will be our blocking and our unrelenting defense,” Kirkman said. “We are scrappy and pretty determined to keep the ball off the floor on our side. We’ve got some height working in our favor, but we also have smart, aggressive blockers that we are counting on to help set up our defense for success.”

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The Lady Trojans will have to develop new setters to find offensive success this year.

“With the loss of both of our setters to graduation and a season-ending injury to our up-and-coming setter, Layne Forgey, we are looking to have some girls step up and into this role,” Kirkman said. “It’s tough to run an offense without an experienced setter at this level, so we will definitely place an emphasis on developing this position.”

Sparta will host a jamboree this year before opening the regular season on Sept. 1 at Ava.

“We have high expectations going into this season,” Kirkman said. “Our senior class is a strong group of athletes that are looking for success in multiple sports so we are looking to start their year off strong.”

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