Congratulations to Katie Cansler as she is the 10/02-10/09 Jennie Stuart Orthopedic – Michael Venable State Farm Player of the Week.
Katie is a sophomore volleyball player at Heritage Christian Academy.
She has had a big season for the Lady Warriors leading her team in kills, (252) blocks, (22) and service aces (68) across 30 games.
When asked how she got her start into volleyball, Cansler mentioned that her tall stature lured her former coach to approach her and ask her to play.
As Cansler mentioned, she was tall for her height but now stands at 5″6, however that does not stop her from getting above the net for the highlight plays, and although her height might have got her into the sport, she credits the family bond with her teammates as to why she has continued playing.
One unique thing about this team is their youth. They are made up of five eighth graders, four freshman, and three sophomores and with this season, Katie has entered an entirely new role on the team as a captain.
From being the soft-spoken freshman last year to now being a vocal leader on her team, she talked about what that’s been like.
Head coach of the Lady Warriors, Grace Stewart also chimed in on how Katie has stepped up.
After starting the season off 0-7, to now being 12-18 and 7-9 in the region, Stewart explained how proud she is of this young squad, and excited she is about their future.
For Katie and the rest of the Lady Warriors, they are preparing to compete in the 8th District Tournament on Tuesday night, October 17 against Christian County.
This game also makes history for Heritage Christian Academy as it will be their first time competing in KHSAA postseason play.