Logan-Rogersville’s volleyball team exceeded expectations last year when they parlayed a 16-15-3 regular season into a district title and a state runner-up finish. So how could a team that got better throughout last season continue to improve this season? How about adding a 6’3″ all-state middle blocker who’s committed to play at Mizzou next year.
Millie Bauer’s teammate and longtime friend, Hailey Buckman remembers the moment she and her teammates heard the news. “Everybody was just super excited,” said Hailey, a senior on the team. “You know, Millie, obviously she’s a great friend, a great person. We think she really fits in with the team as well.”
It certainly helps that she’s fit in well with this team before. “It was really exciting,” said Millie, a senior on the team. “I’ve known a lot of those girls since I was little. My first ever volleyball season was with all the people that I’m playing with now. So it’s kind of like a full circle moment.”
After hitting the 1,000 kill mark last season with Springfield Catholic, Bauer has her sites set on joining the 1,500 kill club this year. Her new team was one win shy of taking the state title a year ago, so Millie’s mission this year is simple. “Hopefully state,” Millie said. “I’m really excited to make a state run with everyone.”
And Hailey is on a mission too. She wants to recruit her to another Wildcat team that made a state run last year.
“She’s playing basketball this year,” Hailey said, with a laugh.
Whether our former Athlete of the Week, nicknamed by her friends Hailey Buckets, succeeds will be something to watch. But one thing is for sure: Millie’s excited to be a Tiger next year too. “A motto they have is LFG,” Millie said. “Which is ‘Love, Family, Grit.”
Love, family and grit. It’s something Millie brings. And the Wildcats hope it puts them over the top.
