Lambert’s Varsity Volleyball Team sprang into action this fall. With a 24-7 overall record, they are predicted to compete in this year’s playoffs.  

Junior outside hitter (OH) Dani Cortes, is eager to take home a state title. She believes the team can get there with some additional momentum. 

“All the games we’ve lost have been within like a 2 point difference,” Cortes explained.“We’re always right there, it’s just we need that little extra push.”

Cortes has been a powerhouse this season. In addition to playing the OH position, she’s also a defensive specialist (DS) and snagged 3 kills (An offensive attack) and 8 digs (defensive comeback) during their recent win against Westminster. Accompanied by her skilled teammates, these ladies bring class on and off the court.

They were winners of the ACDE top 10% award for academics and have an incredibly tight bond outside the court. 

“Our greatest strength is definitely chemistry, they get along very well and they support each other,” Head Coach Missey Hall explained.

Many of the athletes plan to play beyond the high school level, including 3 players who have officially committed to Division 1 schools. Senior Ella Beyer is headed to Virginia Tech, Jordan White will play at Tulane University and junior Molly Kate Patten recently announced her commitment to the University of Georgia to continue her athletic and academic career.

“They’re great athletes,” Coach Hall said. “[I am] excited to watch them excel at the next level.”

Last year, the team fell short at the Elite 8 with a loss to Walton High. This year, they are hopeful to display their growth when they play in the playoffs. Coach Hall says she has seen the most growth in the middle positions. 

“Our middles are running a faster offense,” she explained. “I think there’s a higher level of comfort with being able to run those things in higher level situations.”

Despite the team’s wide range of skills, they value team bonding and determination above all. “I just really want people to be able to say that we did our best and put it all out on the court,” Cortes said.

Lambert is excited to see their hard work pay off over the remainder of the season.