05/17/2026
Congratulations to our four volleyball seniors: Shelby, Sophie, Lyla, and Claire. ❤️🏐🖤
🏐It doesn’t seem that long ago that I was their 8th grade coach, sitting down with the former high school coach discussing each of their performances, abilities, personalities, and potential for the future.
❤️Sophie had such great hands as a setter and always knew how to create opportunities for her hitters. She moved the ball beautifully and made everyone around her better. I’m so proud to see her continue both her volleyball journey and pursue her career path. Sophie, I hope this next chapter brings you success both on and off the court.
🖤Claire already had a great arm swing and vertical, and an impactful jump serve. At the time, consistency and accuracy were the areas we talked most about. Watching her grow into the player she has become has been so rewarding. Claire, I hope you find great success and happiness continuing in your families business.
❤️Lyla was always such a complete volleyball player. She understood the game naturally and had such strong court awareness. One of the only things holding her back was being too hard on herself — trying to coach and referee every little mistake. Lyla, I hope your future as a professional hairstylist brings you genuine happiness, confidence, and fulfillment because you deserve every bit of it.
🖤 Shelby, I have always believed she had the talent and athleticism to become a college athlete. Whether at setter, right side, or even middle, her height, presence, and ability stood out immediately. The biggest challenge was always believing in herself as much as I believed in her. Shelby, I hope you embrace every opportunity that comes with playing volleyball at the collegiate level. I hope you find joy, confidence, lifelong friendships, and success in both volleyball and your major.
🏐 Looking back at those early conversations and evaluations now fills me with so much pride. Getting to come full circle and finish your careers at Caldwell as your varsity coach has truly been a dream come true. All four of you became 4-year varsity lettermen and outstanding athletes, but even more importantly, you grew into strong, confident young women with incredibly bright futures ahead. Thank you for allowing me to be a small part of your journey. Watching each of you grow both on and off the court has been one of the greatest joys and privileges.
❤️🏐🖤 Coach Marlena Kress