ABOVE: Front row: Kayla Mattson, Willow Singleton, Ashley Singleton, Keira Benck, and Addison Sill Middle Row: Abby Wolter, Addison Nowicki, Lindsey Diegnau, Harley Geistfeld, and Londyn Bowers Back Row: Head Coach TJ Williams, Norah Chase, Madisen Lewis, and Taelyn Dengler Photo Courtesy of Sue Petrowiak.

GRANADA/TRUMAN/NORTHROP – Coming into the 2024 season after graduating six seniors from last year’s squad, the Granada-Huntley-East Chain/Truman/Martin Luther Jaguars are still aiming to continue their consistency.

With six returning senior Jaguars, GHEC/T/ML volleyball head coach T.J. Williams is looking to get over the hump and make a run in the playoffs with his squad.

“We’re trying to focus on we’re one team, and not to let anything get us rattled too badly,” Williams said. “So, one play at a time.”

Last season presented some roster challenges in the form of injuries. The focus of the squad is to maintain a healthy squad and continue to put themselves in a position to win. Since taking the helm as head coach, Williams has not seen his team fail to reach the playoffs in four years.

“They all get along really well, which is always a plus when you’re when it’s a team sport. That is definitely a plus for us this year,” Williams said.

Returning with key players in junior setter Kira Bank, outside junior hitter London Bowers and defensive specialist Harley Geisfield, the team is poised to make another run in the playoffs again this season. The chemistry on the court has been well-balanced, with the team functioning well as a complete unit from varsity down.

The team’s chemistry is going to be key for the Jaguars as the season continues. Despite seeing some success early in the playoffs, the second round of the tournament seems to be the hang-up for the squad. Becoming a more versatile team is the idea to break the exit streak in the playoffs.

“[We’ve] got quite a few juniors this year that make up a good squad for us, too, with those seniors,” Williams said. “Overall, we should be pretty decent this year.”

With a returning healthy roster Williams is confident in the position the team is currently in. The continuous work put in across all squads has fostered growth and Williams’ current roster is set up for another strong season.

“I believe with the squad that we got, if we can stay on the positive side, I think we should be able to do it,” Williams said.