By Gene Galin
Raleigh, NC – In a heartfelt post-game press conference, three Seaforth High School volleyball players and their coaches reflected on their exhilarating journey to the state championship. Despite a narrow defeat, coaches Scott Green and Khoury May praised their opponents, McMichael High School, while expressing immense pride in the team’s accomplishments and the progress they made this season. With senior Maris Huneycutt sharing emotional reflections and underclassmen looking ahead, Seaforth’s volleyball program appears to be on the rise.
Season Highlights and Growth
The 2024 season marked a year of incredible achievements for the Seaforth volleyball team. While the championship outcome was bittersweet, the players and coaches expressed pride in their journey, recalling victories over tough 4A teams and their commitment to compete outside of their conference. “We’ve had a really good season so far,” Coach May remarked, noting that challenging non-conference games strengthened the team and built their resilience.
Players noted that the season’s training and high-level competition provided critical experience, with the players preparing rigorously for each game. “They fought really hard and showed their mental toughness and grit,” added coach May, highlighting the team’s “coachable” nature and determination to improve each day.
Fighting Spirit in the Championship Match
The players’ resilience was especially evident in the championship game against McMichael. With only five points in the beginning of the fifth set, Seaforth rallied, scoring eight consecutive points to bring the score within reach. Reflecting on this comeback, Coach May commented, “It just shows like we have grit and toughness. We can fight when we’re down.” For the team, their perseverance in the final set became a defining moment, underscoring their strength even under immense pressure.
Seaforth volleyball players’ determination to win for one another and their commitment to not giving up were the key takeaways from the season, which they plan to carry forward into future games.
Senior Reflections and Lasting Impact
For the two senior players, the championship game carried additional emotional weight as it marked the end of their high school volleyball careers. Senior Maris Huneycutt, despite battling illness, played in the final game to support her team, demonstrating her commitment to the program. “I could have broken my leg, and I still would have been out there playing,” she stated passionately, underscoring her dedication to the sport and her teammates.
Reflecting on the program’s journey, Maris Huneycutt remarked on Seaforth’s development over her high school years. “Our freshman year, we won a total of three games,” she noted. “To come and play in a state championship now is just so cool.” Building Seaforth’s volleyball program from the ground up gave these seniors a deep sense of pride and accomplishment, and their impact on the team’s culture will likely resonate for years.
The Future of Seaforth Volleyball
As Seaforth prepares for next season, the team’s underclassmen are determined to continue the legacy set by the departing seniors. “Now that we know this feeling, we don’t want to be runner-up state champs again—we want to be state champs,” said sophomore player, Ally Forbes. This season has strengthened the team’s mindset, and they’re prepared to work hard to achieve even more next year.
With a mix of returning players and new additions, the coaches are optimistic about the team’s potential. “I’m very confident in this team,” stated Ally Forbes. “Just because we came up short doesn’t mean we lose confidence.” The team will continue to challenge itself with a rigorous schedule, including games against competitive programs like Cardinal Gibbons, which they credit with bolstering their skills and confidence.
Coaches’ Perspective on Team Progress and Potential
Seaforth’s coaching staff has been instrumental in guiding the team’s journey from a few wins in the first season to competing for a state title. For the coaches, the commitment and hard work of each player has made all the difference. “This team is going to push themselves and push to that outcome that they want,” coach May reflected.
The coaching staff also emphasized the importance of setting high standards and building confidence within the program. Their efforts have not only improved the team’s skill level but also inspired a strong sense of unity and purpose. “We’re really supported by the school and everyone around us,” said coach May, expressing gratitude for the community support that has bolstered the team’s morale and confidence.
Building a Legacy of Excellence
Looking back on the season, both players and coaches expressed pride in the program’s growth. “Our standard at Seaforth is high,” said coach May. “With our core people, we can only improve each year.” For the coaches and players alike, the goal is to uphold the legacy of hard work, resilience, and sportsmanship that defines Seaforth volleyball.
The players were equally enthusiastic about what they learned from their coaches, noting that the season taught them invaluable lessons about perseverance and teamwork. “1% better every day,” was a mantra for the team, encouraging them to improve consistently, one step at a time.
Community Support and School Pride
The Seaforth community’s support has been crucial in the team’s development, with students and fans attending games to cheer on their athletes. For the players, the encouragement from their school and community has been a source of strength and inspiration. As Abigail Valgus noted, “We’re supported by the school and everyone around us, and it’s been amazing.”
Playing with such a strong base of support has fueled the team’s motivation, and they’re committed to giving back to their community through their performances on the court. The dedication of Seaforth’s athletes, coaches, and supporters has established a solid foundation for future success.
While Seaforth’s championship journey ended just short of victory, the season was filled with moments of grit, growth, and camaraderie that will serve as a foundation for the team’s future. With a core group of talented players returning, the Seaforth volleyball team is set to continue building on this year’s success. The team’s journey is far from over, and their dreams of a state title may very well become a reality in the near future.
Watch the post-game press conference on YouTube – Seaforth Volleyball Team post championship game press conference – 11.2.24
00:16 Seaforth Volleyball Team showed great determination and pride despite the disappointing result.
- The team displayed exceptional mental toughness, grit, and coachability throughout the match.
- The season’s success is attributed to the team’s hard work, talent, and willingness to challenge themselves by playing tough 4A teams and stepping out of their conference.
01:44 Team showed grit and fought hard throughout the game.
- They played confidently and for each other, leaving everything on the court.
- Emphasized the importance of playing together and supporting each other during crucial moments.
02:54 Players’ determination and commitment to give their all
- Players emphasized the importance of giving their best efforts and staying positive during the game.
- Senior player shares her commitment to the team despite feeling unwell, showcasing the team spirit and determination.
04:18 Players reflecting on their journey from freshman year to state championship game
- Maris was reminiscing about starting with three wins and reaching the state championship game.
- Ally and Abigail express their motivation to improve and aim for a state championship next season.
05:37 Team motivated to compete for those unable to
- Players express confidence in team core and potential for upcoming season.
- Commitment to continue competing at a high level regardless of reclassification.
06:59 Playing tougher teams outside the conference to improve the team
- Playing big competitive teams like Cardinal Gibbons helped boost confidence and showed potential.
- Excitement for the possibilities with young and experienced players, and the determination to push for the desired outcome.
08:29 Creating cherished memories and establishing a high standard at Seaforth
- Meeting new teammates, playing with great coaches, and experiencing exciting playoffs
- Developing a strong bond with teammates and continuously improving each year
09:54 Emphasis on support, confidence, and high standards
- The team has full confidence and high standards for their school and athletic program, and they feel supported by the school and everyone around them.
- The coaches emphasized not giving up, staying confident, and striving to improve by at least 1% in every practice or game.