McKynlee Dunlap
Salina Central
By Angela Brunk
As a senior at Salina Central, McKynlee Dunlap is stepping into her final volleyball season with purpose and pride. A versatile athlete playing both setter and opposite hitter, Dunlap has made it her mission to grow as a leader. “One goal I’m focusing on this season is to be a better team leader overall, being more supportive and stepping up in that role,” she shared with Vype Magazine.
Dunlap is especially looking forward to the away games with her teammates because of the strong team chemistry that makes playing alongside her best friends even more rewarding. “I love the team chemistry we have together, and genuinely I love playing volleyball with my best friends,” she shares.
The offseason wasn’t taken lightly. From plyometrics, hurdles, and yoga to cardio, weightlifting and meditation, Dunlap’s training regimen was designed to improve endurance, explosiveness, and mindset. The team also attended a summer camp at Kansas State University, helping sharpen their skills and build unity.
Statistically, Dunlap’s junior season was a breakout. She recorded 140 kills with a .194 hitting percentage, along with 176 digs and a 94.9% serving percentage. These numbers reflect her steady improvement and hard work, especially on defense. This is an area Dunlap has worked hard to strengthen. “The drills and training we’ve done during practice have shown up in games,” she notes proudly.
Beyond volleyball, Dunlap is involved in track and field, NHS, STUCO, FCA, and serves as a Link Leader. Though still undecided on a college, she plans to major in Pre-Occupational Therapy with hopes of becoming a Pediatric Occupational Therapist.
