Wednesday, April 24, 2024
The 2022 volleyball campaign did not end the way the Gatesville High School varsity team or fans wanted – so close to reaching a berth in the regional tournament but falling short. But that does not diminish what was accomplished in an outstanding season – the Lady Hornets’ best volleyball showing in a decade.
Led by seniors Kaleigh Haywood, Rachel Garrett, Charlee Barron, Lola Barron and Khloe Mathews, the Lady Hornets accomplished things that could only be dreamed about before the season began, and which seemed unlikely with a 1-3 start in district. Not only did the players turn things around, they were able to hand an outstanding Salado team its first loss in district play. They finished the regular season 6-1 against district opponents – including the game vs. Robinson in McGregor to determine playoff seeding.
GHS then proceeded to win both bi-district and area championships, and earned its first trip to the regional quarterfinals since 2012.
While some may look back at the 3-2 loss to Lago Vista and wonder what might have been, the team and GHS fans can look back on a dream season that pushed the program to new heights and could be the foundation for even greater success in the future.
Against Lago Vista, the team had some incredible moments and inspired play. Seniors Mathews and Haywood showcased power and poise, while Lola Barron was an ace machine at times serving for the team and each player had some big plays.
After Gatesville stormed to a 2-0 lead it seemed improbable that Lago Vista would mount such an unbelievable comeback, but momentum in sports can turn quickly. GHS very nearly mounted a game three comeback after trailing much of that contest, but that prize remained just out of reach.
Whether the team was enjoying great prosperity or battling strong adversity, one thing that never wavered during the playoffs was the incredible fan support for those who stood behind the Hornets through thick and thin.
The roar of the crowd led to an ear-ringing evening, and hopefully that type of support will carry over into 2023.
Gatesville head coach Janey Weber, who was part of some outstanding GHS volleyball teams herself before graduating in 2011, said the fan support can be credited for helping to spark and inspire the team.
"We couldn't have done it without them — our fans have been great," she said. "It definitely helps when you have that type of home atmosphere away. I can't say enough about the strong support of our fans."
The team battled through plenty of adversity early in the season, and endured a 1-3 start in district, but the Lady Hornets battled through that and turned the tables.
"They came out in the second half of district and showed a lot of perseverance," Weber said. "That continued into the playoffs. This team has come so far. They need to be proud of their accomplishments this year. They've come so far."
Looking ahead to 2023, the team will welcome the return of Barrett Boyd, Laura Trejo, Ally Penrod, Emma Pollard, Taylor Sanderson and Tamiah Miller. That's just the players on the final varsity roster who are either freshmen, sophomores or juniors. The team will also be able to count on some players moving up from the junior varsity and freshman ranks.
"We have a lot to build on and that's a good thing," Weber said. "Our upperclassmen did a great job of setting the example. I am very proud of them for being the leaders we needed."
Members of the 2022 Lady Hornets included: seniors, Charlee Barron, Kaleigh Haywood, Lola Barron and Khloe Mathews; juniors Barrett Boyd and Laura Trejo; sophomores Vania Martinez, Ally Penrod and Tamiah Miller; and freshman Taylor Sanderson. Head coach: Janey Weber; assistant coaches: Ashley Drozd-Hubik and Andrea Holdbrook. Managers: Avery Meelbusch and Hayleigh Webb.
