In a year brimming with exceptional athletic talent, one player stood above the rest in Howard County volleyball: Kaleigh Williams, a senior at Howard High School. Her incredible performance throughout the 2024 season earned her the prestigious title of Howard County Times 2024 Volleyball Player of the Year. A dynamic and versatile player, Williams has proven herself as a dominant force on the court, and her remarkable journey to success is an inspiring tale of dedication, resilience, and natural athleticism.
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A Start Unlike Any Other
Williams’ volleyball journey began in an unconventional manner. Born and raised in Texas, where volleyball holds a special place in the hearts of many athletes, Williams initially showed interest in the sport during the pandemic. Her mother and older sister were both volleyball players, and their influence encouraged Williams to pick up the sport as a way to connect with them and continue a family tradition. But what started as a casual hobby quickly evolved into a passion that would change her life.
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At first, Williams played for Centennial High School’s freshman team, and it didn’t take long for her to stand out. Her athleticism was evident, even though she was new to the sport. She had previously dabbled in several sports, including cheerleading, gymnastics, soccer, and basketball, and her athletic background gave her a solid foundation to build upon. Her ability to transition quickly and learn new skills was key to her rapid development as a volleyball player.
The Rise of a Star
When Williams transferred to Howard High School as a sophomore, her potential as a volleyball player was immediately recognized. Howard High’s volleyball coach, Grant Scott, was particularly impressed with her natural abilities. From the start, Williams exhibited exceptional athleticism and skill, which made her stand out not only among her teammates but also in the entire county.
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Coach Scott described Williams as a player who makes the complex look effortless. “They would see someone who has tremendous athleticism, power, and makes the game look easy,” Scott said. “She effortlessly manages skills that are really challenging—quick transitions off the net, positioning herself to hit, and blocking with precision.” Williams’ ability to remain calm under pressure, combined with her sheer power and agility, made her a constant threat on the court.
Her versatility became one of her defining qualities. As a middle hitter, Williams excelled in every aspect of the game. Whether it was serving, passing, or blocking, she could do it all. Coach Scott noted that Williams’ versatility was rare for a player in her position, and he often felt comfortable moving her around the court, even letting her set during practices. This adaptability is a hallmark of her game and has contributed to her success.
A Dominant Senior Year
As a senior, Williams had a standout season. She finished second on the team in kills with 150, was the team leader in blocks with 57, and also contributed significantly in digs (90), aces (36), and assists (11). Her all-around performance played a crucial role in Howard High’s incredible season, which included an undefeated regular season, a Howard County championship, and a berth in the Class 3A state semifinals.
Williams’ influence extended beyond her statistics. Her presence on the court was felt at every moment. One particular play in the season encapsulated her determination and skill. During a crucial match, Williams went for a block but the ball deflected towards the bleachers. Without hesitation, she sprinted into the stands, dove to save the ball, and quickly returned to the court for an emphatic block. This play exemplified her commitment to her team and her ability to make seemingly impossible plays look easy.
Her performance also garnered attention from college recruiters. Williams’ growing reputation as a versatile and dynamic player led her to take her game to the next level at the club level. Last year, she transitioned from a local club to Paramount Volleyball, where she competed in a national tournament in Salt Lake City. During this tournament, Williams’ team faced one of the best teams in the nation, Skyline from Houston, Texas. A few months later, Williams tried out for the Skyline team and made the cut, embarking on a rigorous training schedule that involved traveling between Maryland and Texas.
The Journey to College Volleyball
Williams’ commitment to improving her game and playing at the highest level is a testament to her dedication. She has worked tirelessly to develop the skills that will allow her to succeed in college volleyball. Her journey has not been without challenges, including the logistical hurdles of playing for two different teams in two different states. But through it all, Williams has remained focused on her goals and has found success both on the high school and club level.
Williams credits much of her growth to the support system around her, including her high school coach, teammates, and family. “It’s really emotional because I never really thought that I was actually going to get into the sport,” Williams reflected. “I did it just for fun, just following in my mom and sister’s footsteps. But now, looking at the opportunities I have, I’m just really thankful for everything.”
As she looks ahead to her future, Williams is preparing for the next phase of her volleyball career. The opportunity to play at the college level is within reach, and she is eager to continue developing as an athlete. Her remarkable journey from a newcomer to a seasoned player in just a few short years is a testament to her hard work and determination.
Recognizing Excellence: The All-County Team
Williams’ stellar performance did not go unnoticed, and she was named the Howard County Times 2024 Volleyball Player of the Year. But she is not the only standout player in Howard County. The All-County first team includes several other impressive athletes, such as Isard Bernades from Glenelg, McKenna Brown from Howard, Tiana Copp from Reservoir, and Addison Van Oosten from Long Reach, among others. These players, along with Williams, have demonstrated the incredible level of competition in Howard County volleyball.
In addition to the first team, the second team also featured notable players like Zuri Brock from Reservoir, Josie Calhoun from River Hill, and Grace Salveron from Chapelgate Christian. These athletes contributed significantly to their teams’ success throughout the season and helped raise the profile of Howard County volleyball.
A Bright Future Ahead
Kaleigh Williams’ journey from a beginner to the Howard County Times 2024 Volleyball Player of the Year is a story of passion, growth, and perseverance. Her natural talent, combined with her dedication and work ethic, has made her one of the most exciting volleyball players in the region. As she prepares for the next chapter in her volleyball career, there is no doubt that Williams will continue to inspire others and achieve even greater success. Whether on the court for her high school team or competing at the college level, Kaleigh Williams has proven that with the right combination of skill and determination, anything is possible.
