Purdy volleyball encouraged for 2025 season
BY KYLE TROUTMAN ktroutman@cassville-democrat.com
For the first time in eight seasons, the Purdy volleyball team achieved a double-digit win total.
The Lady Eagles, who had only three seniors and a majority of freshmen this season, finished at 11-22-3, falling in the Class 2, District 10 quarterfinals to Sarcoxie, 3-0 (21-25, 15-25, 13-25).
Barry Wheeler, Purdy volleyball coach, said he grades the year as a B+.
“We met our goals and expectations, but we still have a lot of areas that need improved on,” he said. “We saw the biggest improvement in team chemistry, skill development and leadership, and we need to improve more in technicality and passing.”
The Lady Eagles started the year with a win over Bronaugh, but it took eight more tries to taste victory again, a win over Verona. Purdy strung together three straight wins in late September over Golden City, Northeast Vernon County, and Wheaton, and the team got back-to-back wins over Exeter and Sheldon in the beginning of October. The Lady Eagles also bested county rival Southwest in mid-October.
Wheeler pointed to the Verona win as a memorable one this season.
“That 5-set match against Verona gave the girls confidence to come from behind and win,” he said.
Leaving the squad this year are a trio of seniors, Gracie Patton, Zoey Webb and Brooklyn Bunch.
“They contributed greatly with their leadership and performance,” Wheeler said. “All three elevated their game in several categories.”
Looking ahead, the Lady Eagles will retain just one junior and one sophomore, but the roster is bolstered by five freshmen.
“They will bring in a season of experience at the varsity level, which is vital for the future,” Wheeler said. “Class 2 has drastically changed our goals from the past, and we’ve set goals to continue development in the program.”
To meet those goals, Wheeler said the work has to begin in the offseason.
“It starts with continuing to put in the extra work during the offseason and the summer in the weight room and in skill development,” he said. “Next, the returning players must lead the way for the incoming freshmen with their work ethic, mental toughness and continued support for each other.”
