Rising to the Occasion
Kelly Kinney, a senior at the King’s Academy (TKA), is not just any student-athlete; she is a force to be reckoned with on the volleyball court. With a perfect blend of height, skill, and dedication, Kinney has emerged as a prominent figure in high school volleyball. This year, her hard work is paying off, as she has been selected to participate in the prestigious Under Armour All-American High School Volleyball Game. Scheduled for January 1, 2025, at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, this event marks a significant milestone in her athletic career.
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A Special Announcement
The anticipation for this moment has been building for months. Kinney learned about her selection to the All-American Game during a USA Volleyball-organized camp last June. However, the official announcement came as a delightful surprise during the homecoming pep rally at TKA on October 4, where her parents, Matt and Alison, were present to share in her excitement. “It was a surprise announcement,” Kinney expressed, her voice brimming with gratitude. “I am very thankful and grateful for this opportunity.”
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This game is exclusive to the nation’s elite high school players, featuring only 26 senior girls chosen for their exceptional talents. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN, providing Kinney a platform to showcase her skills to a wider audience, making it not just a game but a potential launching pad for her future in volleyball.
A Season to Remember
Kinney’s volleyball journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Standing tall at 6 feet 2 inches, she plays as an outside hitter, a position that demands agility, strength, and precision. This fall, she has also taken on the role of captain for TKA’s girls varsity volleyball team, leading her teammates with a combination of skill and charisma. Kinney’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding TKA as they aim for their first-ever state championship in the Florida High School Athletic Association’s (FHSAA) Class 3A division.
Her accolades extend beyond high school, as she has been part of multiple competitive teams. In June, she played with the Deerfield Beach-based Tribe travel volleyball U17 National AAU Championship team. July brought another victory when she joined the USA Volleyball U19 team, which clinched the Continental Championship in Honduras. These experiences have not only honed her skills but have also enriched her understanding of the game.
A Busy Lifestyle
Despite her intense volleyball schedule, Kinney manages to balance her academic responsibilities. With an impressive 4.0 GPA, she emphasizes the importance of education alongside athletics. When asked about her downtime, she admitted, “I do like to sleep,” highlighting the need for rest amid her busy life. Beyond the court, Kinney enjoys reading, spending time with friends, and binge-watching her favorite TV show, Supernatural.
Her ability to juggle academics, athletics, and personal interests speaks volumes about her time management skills and determination to excel in every aspect of her life.
Looking Ahead
As January 1 approaches, Kinney is not just focusing on the All-American Game; her eyes are also set on her collegiate future at the University of Minnesota. She plans to join the Golden Gophers, a member of the highly competitive Big Ten Conference, starting June 7 next year. This transition to collegiate volleyball represents a new chapter in her athletic career, and Kinney is ready to embrace the challenges that come with it.
However, her immediate goal is clear: to lead her team to victory in the upcoming state championship game on November 6 in Winter Haven. “Playing in that FHSAA state championship match would be a fitting conclusion to my high school career,” she noted. The chance to end her high school journey on a high note is something Kinney and her teammates are eagerly preparing for.
The Spirit of Dedication
Kinney’s story is one of dedication, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As she prepares for the All-American Game and the impending state championship, she embodies the spirit of a true athlete. Her journey serves as an inspiration to young volleyball players everywhere, showcasing that with hard work, determination, and a supportive family, dreams can indeed come true.
In the coming months, all eyes will be on Kelly Kinney as she steps onto the national stage, proving herself to be not only a skilled athlete but also a role model for aspiring volleyball stars. The future looks bright for this budding volleyball star, and the world of collegiate athletics is about to discover her undeniable talent.
