Lady Knights eye return to prominence

Robbinsville – Coming off a Smoky Mountain Conference title and the program’s first Elite 8 appearance since the 1980s, the Lady Knights understandably entered the 2020 season with a lot of swagger.

But a three-month delay to the start of the slate – combined with limited availability for competition outside the division and a reduced playoff format – all led to Robbinsville posting a 10-4 record and missing the postseason altogether.

This year, however, promises to be different. The season will begin on time – a home match Monday against Franklin kicks off the campaign – and head coach Kadey Phillips has six seniors who have spent the last few seasons building their skill-sets, preparing for their year in the spotlight.

“We lost two seniors; however, we are returning with the largest varsity lineup that I have ever had as a varsity coach,” Phillips said. “We have had a great turnout.”

Leading the program this year will be seniors Halee Anderson – who is switching to libero this season – returning setter Ally Ayers, middle hitter Yeika Jimenez, outside hitter Ivy Odom, Phoebe Rattler – a transfer from Cherokee – and middle hitter Kelsey Waldroup.

“Halee will be the first libero that I have trained in four seasons,” Phillips said. “She has big shoes to fill, but has risen to the challenge. I think she will be very successful this coming season.

“Ally received an All-Conference honorable mention last year. She is the core of our team, contacting the ball more than anyone else on the court. It’s a big job, but I know Ally will rise to the occasion. Yeika received All-Conference last season and led our team in kills. I expect greatness out of Yeika again this season. Phoebe has been a great addition to our program, and I look forward to seeing what she can accomplish this season.

“Ivy is a crucial aspect of this team with her leadership skills. She steps up when needed and encourages her teammates to always give 100 percent. Kelsey has put in lots of work this summer during workouts and I am excited to see what she will accomplish this year.”

Also returning are outside hitters Delaney Brooms (sophomore), Kensley Phillips (junior) and Aubrie Wachacha (sophomore). The latter led the Lady Knights in digs last season and was named All-Conference, while Brooms was named an All-Conference Honorable Mention last year.

New to the varsity squad this year are Tai Owle, Kylie Shuler, Zoie Shuler and Fala Welch.

Coach Phillips has all the key elements in place for Robbinsville to once again reign as conference champions, but her expectations do not stop there.

“I am looking forward to this season, especially after not being able to have a regular season last year,” coach Phillips said. “I know the girls and I are looking forward to having our fans back in the gym to support us. 

“The conference realignment comes into effect this season as well, giving us some new teams to play. It will be a little different, but we are excited for the change and the opportunity to branch out and play some new volleyball.

“This is a very special group of athletes, and I think we will have a great shot at a conference title – and even a state title – this season.”