After falling to eventual Division II state volleyball champion Gates Mill Gilmour Academy in the regional semi-finals in 2021, Highland High School, which finished the season 22-5 (14-0 MOAC), looks to continue its volleyball dominance in the Mid-Ohio Athletic Conference this fall.
The Lady Scots are seeking a 10th consecutive MOAC title and hope to make another deep run in the state tournament in 2022.
In the past 12 seasons, coach Rob Terrill has led the Lady Scots to five district championships and boasts a 252-40 record.
Terrill’s coaching philosophy was shaped by assistant coaching stints at Marion Elgin under the direction of Sherril Appelfeller, who has more than 300 career wins, and at Mintonette Sports, coached by Max Miller.
Highland is not married to a particular system preferring flexibility and adaptability.
“We adapt our offense/defense depending upon the opponent, to take advantage of our strengths,” Terrill said.
The Lady Scots must replace graduates Kendall Stover, who led the team with 504 kills, and Brilyn Tuggle, who had 369 digs.
Despite key losses, a lot of talent remains on the roster. Sophomores Larsen Terrill (125 kills) and Kami Stover (124 kills) look to take charge and make up for the two seniors' departure.
Zoya Winklefoos returns; she led the servers with 58 aces.
Brook Schott heads into her senior year after leading the Lady Scots with seven blocks last season.
Winklefoos had 204 digs and Alexis Eusey finished with 120 digs and are looked upon as ready to make up the difference.
“Our six returning lettermen will step up and lead us,” Terrill said. “ I've been impressed by their improvement over the spring. Their versatility makes us stronger.”
This team is a tight-knit group on and off the court.
“We are always doing team bonding activities; bonfires, tie-dye shirts, movie nights, ice cream, supporting the middle school teams and son on, “ Terrill said.
Terrill likes the team’s chances.
“I feel like we will get stronger as the year progresses and we should compete again for a league championship and district championship,” he said.
Highland's volleyball squad opens its season Aug. 20 at Big Walnut.
