After getting her first taste of varsity volleyball as a freshman, Andover Central’s Corbyn Holcomb is entering her sophomore season with a greater sense of confidence — and an expanded leadership role.
Holcomb started on varsity as a freshman and recorded 137 digs and 177 serve receptions. Now, she is looking forward to building on that experience while helping the Jaguars pursue a trip to the state tournament.
“I am really looking forward to competing at a high level with a great group of girls and amazing coaches,” Holcomb said. “We have big goals to have a successful season and postseason.”
Holcomb said one of the things she is most excited about is having another season with several of Andover Central’s upperclassmen.
“I have some great upperclassmen that I am really looking forward to having one more season playing with,” she said. “Andover Central volleyball is a great program to be part of and I want our season to last as long as possible.”
Holcomb spent much of the offseason preparing for that opportunity. She played club volleyball with Shockwave 15-1s, with the season lasting until mid-June because of the team’s appearance at AAU Nationals. Shockwave finished fifth in the Premier Division.
She also worked out throughout the winter, spring and summer at Omnicut and attended college camps at the University of Tulsa and the University of Central Missouri. Holcomb also participated in her team’s camp at the University of Nebraska-Kearney and trained with Andover Central throughout the summer.
While the physical preparation has been important, Holcomb has placed an emphasis on developing her leadership and communication on the court.
“Last year as a freshman playing varsity I was finding my place and building my confidence,” Holcomb said. “During this club season, I really focused on communicating constantly with my team and controlling the defense.”
Holcomb has also continued to work on her strength during the offseason, hoping to be better prepared for the demands of another varsity season.
Her individual goals are centered less on statistics and more on helping the Jaguars succeed.
“My individual goal is to be the best teammate I can be and do everything I can do to help my team succeed,” Holcomb said.
Andover Central has its sights set on a postseason run, with the Jaguars hoping to win sub-state and earn a spot in the state tournament.
The team’s slogan — “How you do anything is how you do everything” — reflects the approach Holcomb hopes the Jaguars will carry throughout the season.
“Our team goal is to put 100% effort and energy into everything, show up every day and compete,” Holcomb said.
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