Committing to the University of Wyoming and Oregon State University on a full academic scholarship, volley-  ball players have played a important role in their teams success. With seniors Kenna Cogill and Lily LaFlesch helping in reaching state finals, their leadership and confidence have defined their volleyball career.

LaFlesch was introduced to volleyball through her friend’s invitation to go to a simple volleyball camp. She continued, “Well, my friend was playing volleyball before me and then she just asked me if I wanted to go just like a simple little camp.” At the time, LaFlesch recently quit cheer, and the camp opened her eyes to a new sport.

Senior Kenna Cogill got involved in playing volleyball due to her mother’s friend’s daughter and has been playing for the past six years. Before committing to the University of Wyoming, LaFlesch rejected a college in Pennsylvania, because she did not “want to live in that city.” She also received an offer from Texas Christian University, but declined. LaFlesch explained, “I was offered at TCU but it just kind of just didn’t work out with the whole situation that they had to do with playing, time, and money.” After declining several colleges, University of Wyoming was a perfect fit for her volleyball career.

Cogill explained, “the colleges that offered me were Perdue, USD, Oregon state and Pepperdine.” Cogill decided to attend Oregon state university due to its location, the volleyball team and her admiration of the coaches. Cogill stated, “The area is perfect because it’s close enough to home but it’s still far enough away.” One of the reasons Cogill made the decision to go to Oregon State University was because of the coaches.

For the duration of her volleyball career LaFlesch has developed skills and strategies to keep a high performance. LaFlesch continued, “Honestly, [I improve with] life skills in general like leadership, independence, and confidence in myself. Just being hard-working and resilient.” Cogill plays for a club team and explained that her proudest moment in the sport was winning nationals. She has grown in confidence which has allowed her to enhance her skill in volleyball.

Cogill and LaFlesch thoroughly researched and decided their overall best college pick. Finalizing state championships, gaining skills, and strategies, these volleyball players are optimistic about their new future.