WCMS volleyball enjoys team camp
Bethany Mesaros expected her team to show up ready to work this week. What she didn't expect to see her own face staring back at her.
When the Warren County Middle School Lady Pioneers arrived for the first day of team camp Monday, the program's eighth graders surprised Mesaros and assistant coach Mea Starkey by wearing matching shirts featuring the coaching duo in a parody of the iconic Step Brothers movie poster. The prank caught both coaches off guard, set the tone for the week and proved the Lady Pioneers were ready to do more than just sharpen their volleyball skills.
“The highlight of the day? Our 8th graders surprised the coaching staff by showing up in hilarious matching shirts!”
- The WCMS volleyball Facebook page summarizing Monday’s camp
From Monday morning's first workout until Thursday's camp-ending pool party, the Lady Pioneers made sure of two things: they were going to work hard and have fun doing it.
"Team camp is not only an opportunity to develop on-court abilities, but also a chance for players to build relationships with one another," Mesaros said. "Through practices, shared meals, games and other team activities, the girls are able to bond as teammates and create friendships that often last well beyond a single season."
That philosophy was evident throughout the week.
The Lady Pioneers spent hours strengthening the fundamentals that become the backbone of every successful volleyball team. Passing, serving, setting, hitting and defensive play all received plenty of attention while players also learned rotations and got a quick crash course on something they’ll need soon.
“They began gaining exposure to game-like situations that will help prepare them for competition during the season,” said Mesaros, a former WCHS standout and college volleyball player.
Just as important, the coaching staff built opportunities for the players to grow together away from the court.
Monday's lunch break featured pizza and games before practices resumed, while the pool party gave the team one final opportunity to celebrate a productive week together. Between drills, meals and team activities, the Lady Pioneers continued building the chemistry Mesaros hopes will carry into the season.
And that laughter which started with the eighth graders' surprise shirts? It never really stopped.
Warren County will begin play in the coming weeks. Continue to follow the Warren County Way for the latest information on local athletics.
