KCC Volleyball 2023 Season Preview
The 2023 KCC Volleyball team began practice earlier this month under the direction of Head Coach Judy Mason. This will be Coach Mason's first season at the helm, after many seasons as an assistant within the program. They kick off their competitive season next week as they travel to Rockford, IL for the Opening Weekend Tournament.
Leading the returners for the Bruins this season is outside hitter Jordyn Arnold (Mattawan, MI/Mattawan), who notched Honorable Mention All-Western Conference, MCCAA Academic All-Conference, and First Team Academic All-American. Coach Mason noted that Jordyn is a selfless player who steps into any role at the net, and in defense. "This year, she will be able to continue to grow and support the team with her strength to lead and execute," said Mason, "I am excited to see what she accomplishes this fall!"
Another key returner for the Bruins is defensive specialist Morgan Keson (Bellevue, MI/Bellevue), who notched MCCAA Academic All-Conference last season. Coach noted that beyond the court, Morgan is a leader in the classroom. "Morgan was a setter in high school and she has adapted her play to defense and is continuing to take on a proactive approach on the court. Relentless pursuit is her mind set to support her teammates," said Mason.
Rounding out the returning trio of Bruins is outside hitter Jillian Clary (Tecumseh,MI/Tecumseh). Coach Mason said, "Jillian comes from a strong high school program in Tecumseh. Her out of season work is showing as she continues to excel in practice and competes to see the court. Her swing and power potential are just beginning to be shown." She noted that Jillian will be a force to see this season.
Transferring in to join the sophomore class is middle blocker, Ella Kohuth (Louisville, CO/Monarch) coming to KCC from NJCAA DI Armarillo College in Texas. Coach Mason was excited to add her to the roster stating, "Ella will not only give us strength and height in the middle but lend us the Net Knowledge and defense we need to block our opponents. Ella looks to expand and grow her game to compete at the next level when she is ready to transfer."
When asked about her freshman class, coach stated, "As for incoming players, this season we have players that understand the push in their High School post-seasons to get the win." These would include Alaina Brubaker (Athens,MI/Athens) whose team finished Runner-up at the MHSAA State Championship in 2022, and Kate Doyle (Battle Creek,MI/St. Philip Catholic Central) who notched 2 MHSAA State Championships during her high school career. Coach noted that along with the work ethic, she also has leaders from area schools that include high school co-captain and now KCC setter/right side, Julia May (Charlotte, MI/Charlotte).
Other newcomers include defensive specialist Payge Ellifritz (Three Rivers, MI/Three Rivers) who will help run the defense and setter Grace Hybels (Plainwell,MI/Plainwell) who will help run the offense. Also joining is outside hitter Gabrianna Kringle (Kalamazoo,MI/Galesburg-Augusta) will add to leadership on the court. Rounding out the incoming group are a pair of middle blockers: Antonia Keith (Charlotte,MI/Charlotte) who brings speed and quickness will help the offense execute their plans, and Alana Compton (Middleville/Thornapple Kellogg) who brings a strong basketball background to keep the defense in line as well.
"First season being the head coach is exciting. I believe that I have a great coaching team and the right group of Student Athletes to work hard, learn, and obtain goals," said Mason. Head Coach, Judy Mason is joined on staff by Assistant Coach, Colleen Skelton and Strength Coach, Ben Yarger.