Little River’s Saelyn Raleigh is coming off a standout season in which she recorded 361 kills, 199 digs, 55 blocks and 66 aces. Her performance earned her first-team All-State Tournament Team, first-team All-State and first-team Wheat State League honors.
“I’m looking forward to being able to step back out on the court one last time with my friends,” Raleigh said. “I am also looking forward to seeing what we can accomplish as a team.”
Raleigh has spent the offseason preparing for that final opportunity. She has focused on building strength and improving her agility in the weight room, while the Little River team has continued to develop together through a team camp and summer skill work.
Individually, Raleigh has put extra emphasis on improving her serve-receive game. She has worked with teammates at the gym, completing drills designed to improve her technique and consistency.
“I’ve been working on serve-receive by going up to the gym with other teammates and doing multiple drills to improve my technique,” Raleigh said.
Raleigh also wants to take on an increased leadership role for the team. She plans to lead by maintaining a positive attitude and being a vocal presence on the court.
“As a leader, I want to stay positive and be a vocal presence on the court,” Raleigh said.
With one season remaining, Raleigh has set an ambitious personal goal of reaching 1,000 career kills. But her biggest focus remains the team and another opportunity to compete for a state title.
“One personal goal is to hit 1,000 kills,” Raleigh said. “As a team, our goal is to play our best volleyball this season and make another run at a state title.”
After a decorated junior season, Raleigh enters her final year determined to build on her success while helping Little River make another championship push. With experience, preparation and leadership becoming key parts of her role, Raleigh hopes her final season is one to remember.
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