Keys volleyball teams met in the middle on Aug. 13 to test their grit against one another prior to the official start of the season four days later. The Hurricanes of Coral Shores were the preseason champs, defeating both Marathon and Key West 2-0 in matches that were close, competitive and full of excitement for the upcoming season.
Head coach Sam Ovalle’s Lady ’Canes enter the season with a young but experienced roster, bolstered by veteran leadership. A talented sophomore class gained valuable experience last season, and if last week’s test is any indication, the Hurricanes could be a factor in FHSAA’s Class 3A District 16. Ovalle praised his team’s energy and noted standout performances from Celene Walker, Alex Burson, Abby Leigh, Coralyn Frimpter, Bella Villalba and Eliyana Mcleod.
Joining the Hurricanes in 3A District 16 are the Lady Conchs, who picked up a pair of wins over Marathon. Coach Kim Butler’s roster is relatively young, but the Lady Conchs have athleticism and size on their side. Helping to guide that young talent are libero Journey Lamb and back row specialist Dianeza Gonzalez, who managed to stand out on a roster full of seniors last season. Despite some preseason miscues, Key West showed plenty of potential while testing different lineups and making adjustments ahead of the regular season.
Marathon has a new coach this season, but it’s hardly a new face. Kevin Freeman returns to the volleyball program to lead the Dolphins in their quest for a Rural District 8 title. Freeman served 15 seasons as head coach of the Lady Fins before stepping down in 2020, and six years later, he’s back on the court and ready for another run. His roster features a healthy mix of veterans and underclassmen eager to prove what they can do in district play. Adelle Bainbridge will shore up the net while Ana Boose and Dahlia Westdickenberg will hold things down on the back line.
Basilica School will compete at the junior varsity level this season after graduating seven seniors last year. With a roster made up entirely of underclassmen, the Mariners will use the season to develop their young players, gain valuable varsity-level experience and begin building the foundation for seasons to come.
