Monterey’s volleyball team captured a program-record 16 victories this season, overcoming the loss of seven seniors from last year’s roster and establishing a new standard for the Lady Wildcats.
Senior Raechel Schliter said the team entered preseason determined to improve after several difficult seasons. Schliter said players embraced new responsibilities and began recognizing their potential during preseason competition, despite suffering some early losses.
“I think when we went to Chattanooga for preseason and then we went to some play days and we had some losses but then when we were back watching film we saw like some really good things and we kind of just realized, okay, if we can become a little bit more consistent at this then we could really be a good team this year and I think that’s what we did and I think it went really well for us,” Schliter said.
Schliter said her own journey required significant adjustments after a broken ankle forced her to reconsider her role on the court. Previously a middle hitter, she transitioned to outside hitter and defensive specialist, working to improve her serve-receive and defensive abilities.
“I used to be a middle and I broke my ankle and when I came back, Todd, asked me if I could transition to outside and I had to learn to serve-receive and play defense better so I put in the work and I want them to like look at how far I’ve come and just see like I can like be the player I want to be as long as you have the motivation and you work for it,” Schliter said. “I hope that I set a good example for the younger players.”
Schliter said the team’s improvement extended beyond individual performances. Strong friendships and a shared commitment to the program helped the Lady Wildcats build confidence and support one another throughout the season.
“It really just came from motivation, friendship and love for everyone,” Schliter said. “I don’t think there’s a single person on that team that doesn’t want to be on that team or isn’t proud of where they are on that team.”
With Schliter and fellow senior Jaylee departing, the Lady Wildcats will return a group of players who helped establish the program’s new wins record. Schliter said continued practice and additional club volleyball experience could help the younger athletes build on that success.
“I think they can be even more successful than we were this year,” Schliter said. “They just have to want it and they have to put the work in for it.”