Adversity Produces Big Wins

 by Zoe Gregg ‘28


This season, the Delone Catholic Squirettes volleyball team faced adversity before even starting practices: they had graduated two full-rotation outsides and were beginning the season with an all-new coaching staff. 

Photo courtesy of Brienna Richelle Photography

Lily Kane, a starting middle for the squirettes, cites outside opinions: “Everyone thought we wouldn’t be good, but we exceeded those expectations by winning districts and going deep into the state tournament.” 

Journalists described the postseason run as "unforgettable," calling the team a dominant powerhouse that won tough matches through smrt, disciplined play. The entire program was being rebuilt — overcoming significant prior setbacks while persevering through a challenging environment.

A similar situation occurred for the Squirettes basketball team. Coach Eckenrode states his opinion before the first practice, “I thought we could win 14-15 games this year.” His skepticism stemmed from the team having only 2 returning starters and a group of underclassmen who had struggled through a difficult JV season the year before.

This team came out blazing, with Game Time PA player of the year Reece Meckley leading the team. A couple of players Coach thought were inexperienced stepped up when it mattered. Coach Eckenrode noted that, while he wasn't seeking credit, several people told him this was one of his best coaching seasons.

Sophomore Amelia Joyce vocalized one specific memory, "Our coach set a goal of winning just 1 game out of a tough three-game stretch — we won 2, showing him we could rise to a higher standard."

This team was able to exceed expectations due to the overall culture of the team. There was mutual respect between coaches and players, all-around support, and a comprehensive, enjoyable atmosphere. 


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