Avery Wartick enters the upcoming season ready to take on a new role while helping Circle volleyball pursue a return to the state tournament.
Wartick, who has played outside hitter and defensive specialist, is moving to libero this season. The transition has given her a clear focus during the offseason as she worked to strengthen her serve receive and defensive skills.
“I’m moving to libero this season, so I wanted to really work on my serve receive and defense,” Wartick said. “In all of the different workouts and practices I did, I really focused on those specific skills by staying after and getting extra reps.”
Wartick put in plenty of work to prepare for the change. Her offseason included club volleyball during the winter, summer camps, private lessons, school workouts and tournaments. She also spent time watching film to identify areas where she could improve.
That preparation comes after a strong junior season in which Wartick recorded 97 perfect serves with 28 aces, 209 digs and 112 kills, which ranked third on the team. She also earned KVA All-State Academic honorable mention and AVCTL Division 4 All-League honorable mention honors.
Now, Wartick hopes to use her experience and defensive development to help the Thunderbirds take the next step.
“We haven’t made a trip to the state tournament since my freshman year, so a goal I have is to make it back,” Wartick said. “Another goal I have is getting first in our league.”
For Wartick, however, success is about more than statistics or team accomplishments. As a captain, she wants to provide leadership while continuing to develop her own game.
“Individually, my goal is to be the best teammate I can be while improving my skills,” Wartick said.
That leadership will be especially important as Circle works toward its postseason goals. Wartick is looking forward to competing alongside her teammates and making the most of the season.
“This season I am most excited about being on the court with my friends and hopefully leading my team to success,” Wartick said.
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