In the realm of high school sports, the journey is often marked by triumphs, setbacks, and the unwavering spirit of teamwork. The Lakeland High School volleyball team exemplifies this journey as they navigate the trials and tribulations of a challenging season. Under the guidance of head coach Kelsie Badger, the Hawks have faced adversity head-on, particularly through the injury of senior standout Ziya Munyer. Her story, alongside that of her teammates, illustrates how facing challenges has forged a stronger, more unified team. As the Hawks prepare for the state 5A volleyball tournament, they stand as a testament to resilience, growth, and the power of teamwork.
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Ziya Munyer’s experience encapsulates the heart of this journey. With high expectations resting on her shoulders, the 6-foot-1 middle blocker was poised to lead her team into what could be a championship season. However, a significant injury at practice threatened to derail not only her aspirations but also those of the entire Lakeland squad. The challenges posed by Munyer’s injury ultimately became a catalyst for transformation within the team, pushing them to develop a deeper sense of unity and strength. As they prepare for the state tournament, the Hawks’ story is a compelling narrative of adversity, resilience, and the transformative power of teamwork.
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The Injury That Changed Everything
On September 13, during a routine practice, Ziya Munyer went up for a jump serve, a moment that turned her world upside down. Upon landing, she felt her knee give out, and in that instant, her heart sank. “I was distraught,” Munyer recalled, recognizing the gravity of her situation. The collective gasp from her teammates and coach painted a vivid picture of concern as they gathered around her, sharing the palpable tension that filled the air. This was more than just an injury; it was a moment that could define the trajectory of their season.
After an MRI revealed a slight tear of the patellar tendon in her right knee and a possible micro-tear of the meniscus, the reality of the injury set in. Initially faced with the prospect of surgery and a prolonged recovery, Munyer felt a wave of uncertainty wash over her. The fear of not returning to play, coupled with the disappointment of letting her team down, weighed heavily on her. However, there was a glimmer of hope when she learned that surgery would not be necessary, allowing her a chance to recover and return to the court.
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With the support of her coach and the head coach at Weber State—where she had verbally committed to play—Munyer received the green light to return when she was ready. Nevertheless, her absence had immediate repercussions. Missing a tournament at Freeman High in Rockford, Wash., as well as three matches and two other tournaments, the Hawks were forced to adapt quickly. Little did they know, this challenge would lead to a newfound strength within the team, pushing them to redefine their identity and capabilities.
The Team’s Transformation During Adversity
With Munyer sidelined, coach Kelsie Badger made the strategic decision to bring up several freshmen to fill the gaps in their roster. “I truly believe that we got better,” Badger noted, reflecting on the team’s transformation during Munyer’s recovery. This unexpected turn of events forced the Hawks to rely on teamwork, communication, and collaboration rather than solely on Munyer’s exceptional skills. The adversity became a powerful teacher, fostering an environment where players had to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new roles.
The emphasis on unity became a cornerstone for Lakeland as they navigated their matches without their star middle blocker. The players who stepped up were not only determined to hold the fort but were also eager to showcase their own talents. The Hawks emerged as a formidable force, demonstrating that strength comes in many forms and that collective effort can often outshine individual brilliance. As new faces joined the court, veteran players like Landree Simon and Alyssa Ryckman took on leadership roles, guiding the younger players and instilling confidence within the team.
This period of adjustment brought the team closer together, as they learned to trust one another and build chemistry. Badger observed that the focus shifted from relying solely on Munyer’s skills to enhancing the overall team dynamic. The resilience developed during this time laid the groundwork for future successes, illustrating that adversity could be transformed into opportunity. As they grew stronger as a unit, the Hawks found themselves not only improving their performance but also deepening their bonds as teammates.
Rising to the Challenge
The Hawks were already equipped with a roster of strong players who were ready to step up in Munyer’s absence. Senior Landree Simon, junior Alyssa Ryckman, and sophomore Raygen Dutton showed remarkable tenacity and skill during this period. When asked about who particularly stepped up during this challenging time, Badger immediately pointed to Simon, who had always been a strong player but took on an even more significant role. “Landree, 100 percent. She really showed how strong of a player she was,” Badger praised, noting that Simon’s versatility allowed her to shine in all areas of play, enhancing both the offensive and defensive aspects of the game.
Simon’s leadership became increasingly important as the team faced the challenges ahead. She emphasized the collective effort of the entire team, stating, “I think we all stepped up as a team.” This statement reflects the true spirit of Lakeland, showcasing how adversity had united them in a way that might not have been possible otherwise. The camaraderie developed during this period proved crucial, as each player recognized the importance of supporting one another.
The return of Munyer added a new layer of excitement to the team. Olivia Zazuetta, the team’s setter, highlighted the significance of the experience: “The girls that did step up really did their part to fill [Munyer’s] shoes.” This acknowledgement of teamwork and collaboration became the backbone of their approach as they prepared to re-integrate Munyer into the lineup. Addy Jo Hocking, the libero, also contributed to this sense of unity, recalling her thoughts during Munyer’s absence. “I was thinking about districts, and how tough it would be, but I was also thinking that our team can do it,” she expressed, demonstrating the determination shared by her teammates.
A Legacy of Resilience
The story of the Lakeland Hawks is deeply rooted in their history, particularly for this year’s five seniors, who were eighth graders during the fall of 2020 when the program clinched its first and only state title. For them, the memories of that championship run served as motivation, a reminder of what they could achieve if they worked together. Simon, whose sister Kenna was on that title-winning team, recalled, “It was so cool, going to play on varsity from a state championship team that was returning.”
The legacy of that 2020 team was not just a point of reference but a source of inspiration. Zazuetta, who transferred to Lakeland from Post Falls, also reflected on the camaraderie that developed among the players during their time together in junior varsity. “Just knowing that we could grow up together and be able to play together,” she stated, illustrating the foundation of support that has carried them through the years.
Munyer emphasized the bond that formed among the players since their freshman year, recognizing the special connection they developed. “When we were freshmen, we had been playing together for a long time, and we’ve been able to create that special bond,” she noted, highlighting the collective ambition they shared. This sense of history and mutual respect laid the groundwork for their current success, as they drew strength from their shared experiences and aspirations.
The path since that championship year has been fraught with challenges. In the following two seasons, the Hawks faced disappointment as they were upset at home during regionals and missed out on state both years. The lessons learned from those setbacks fueled their desire to return to the state tournament with a renewed sense of purpose. This year, the team’s growth is evident, not only in their skills but also in their determination to reclaim their place among the elite.
Learning from Setbacks
While the absence of Munyer was felt, it also served as a valuable lesson in resilience. The experience forced the team to embrace the reality of setbacks and to rally together in ways they had not anticipated. This newfound perspective helped them develop as athletes and as a cohesive unit. The lessons learned during Munyer’s injury transformed their approach to both practices and matches, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and the willingness to learn from each experience.
In the wake of Munyer’s injury, the Hawks faced a turning point in their season. They realized that adversity could serve as a catalyst for growth, prompting them to enhance their skills while simultaneously strengthening their bonds as teammates. This shift in mindset allowed them to view challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for improvement. The players pushed each other to elevate their performance, embracing the notion that the collective effort was paramount to their success.
As the team continued to work through their matches, their collective effort began to yield positive results. Upon Munyer’s return on October 8, the Hawks quickly regained their footing, losing only once in subsequent matches. The experience had fortified their resolve, making them a more dynamic and adaptable team. The excitement surrounding Munyer’s return infused the squad with a renewed energy, propelling them forward as they prepared for the state tournament.
Facing the State Tournament
As the Lakeland Hawks prepare for the state 5A volleyball tournament, they enter as the No. 1 seed—a position they have earned through perseverance and determination. Their first match is set against the eighth-seeded Twin Falls, a test of their skill and tenacity. The players’ confidence is palpable, with Munyer expressing a focused mindset as they approach the tournament: “Our mindset is just taking it one game at a time.”
This approach highlights their commitment to staying grounded amid the excitement. They are determined to focus on their game plan.
