The 2026 Whippet Volleyball Program held their end of season banquet on Monday night. The night was filled with celebration of the growth and commitment of our athletes, families and coaches.
Head Coach Caitlin Dowden started the evening thanking the various people who support the program from administration, families, coaches, athletes, and custodial staff to our fans. There are so many who support the student athletes and the team, and we are thankful to all.
Next up was comments from each coach as they highlighted each student athlete. Coach Rachel DePorter led the way acknowledging the hard work of her JV2 athletes. As she spoke, she reminded the players of the potential they each possess as they grow within the volleyball program. Working hard in the off season was encouraged, as they can all come back stronger, faster and ready for what is next. The JV2 squad showed incredible growth throughout the season and we are excited to see what is next for each of them!
JV1 head coach, Kristen Lippens, shared how much it meant to coach a group of hard working and dedicated athletes. Each one of the athletes committed to the team, worked hard to improve, and got better each set. She shared she hopes each one takes what they have learned and applies it to the off season. She looks forward to all they will accomplish in the years to come. There were also some athletes from the JV who played both at the JV level and the Varsity level to support the program. Emily Chilicki, Jillian Buehler, Makenna Agen, and Kora Davis were all recognized for their flexibility and positivity as they took on this role.
Coach Dowden and Coach Kilar then had the opportunity to share about the Varsity team, with special highlights about the Seniors at the end. Each athlete was highlighted for their contributions to the team, and the program as a whole. Growth was seen from every athlete this season, as they developed an understanding of what it takes to compete at a high level.
Coach Dowden began: “Coming into this season, we knew we were going to face our fair share of challenges and that it was going to be a bit of a roller coaster ride. That often comes with a coaching change, new expectations, new ideas, and a different approach being brought into the gym. Change isn't always easy, and growth certainly isn't always comfortable.
But we have to give these girls an incredible amount of credit. Through the highs, the lows, the tough practices, the frustrating losses, and everything in between, they continued to show up, stick together, and work to get better. And because of that, they made this season one that we will not forget.
Our record does not even begin to reflect three things: the tremendous growth these girls made, the incredible amount of talent they bring to the court, and, most importantly, the amazing young women they are. The young women standing in front of you tonight are truly SPECIAL”
Team members included Freshman Jillian Buehler, Sophomores; Siennah Allan, Cora Schimming, and Jasmine Kilar. Juniors Mary Mason, Emery Kachel, and Alondra Verduzco. Seniors Maddi Morton, Ema Aranda, Emi Islas, Jordyn Weeden, and Rowan Seaver.
Some honors on the night included Junior Emery Kachel who was honored as our Most Improved Athlete on the season. Emery played middle hitter for us and was first on our team in total blocks and hitting percentage. She was second on the team in total kills and kills/set. Emery was also chosen as an All Conference Honorable Mention Selection for our conference.
Sophomore Jasmine Kilar was also honored with post season awards. Jasmine led our team in kills per set, digs per set, serving aces, aces per set, total digs, and total kills. Jasmine also finished second on the team in hitting percentage. Jasmine received the team Most Valuable Player award, the Hustle Award and was honored as a First Team All Conference selection by the conference coaches.
The night ended honoring our Seniors, Maddi, Emi, Ema, Jordyn, and Rowan. Coach Dowden shared, “These athletes have spent countless hours in the gym and on the court - always pushing themselves and their teammates to be better. Whether it was through your hustle in practice, the encouragement you gave to your teammates, or the leadership you showed during tough moments, you’ve set an example for what it means to be a Whippet - our younger athletes have some amazing footsteps to follow in. You’ve become role models for the younger players and are leaving Whippet Volleyball in a better position. It has been incredible to watch you grow, not only as volleyball players but as leaders and individuals.”
We wish all our Seniors well in whatever the future may hold for them!