The Whippet Volleyball Program recently held its annual end-of-year banquet, recognizing the hard work, growth, and dedication of athletes across all levels — JV2, JV1, and Varsity. Each team was celebrated for their commitment to learning, improvement, and teamwork throughout the season.
JV1 and JV2 coaches, Coach Miller and Coach AJ, highlighted their teams’ strong work ethic, selfless play, and consistent progress. Every athlete was honored with a word symbolizing their unique contribution to the team, reflecting the character and effort they brought to the program each day. The coaches shared their excitement for the bright future ahead with this promising group of athletes.
Varsity Head Coach Lippens expressed heartfelt gratitude to the families, administration, and athletes for their continued support throughout the season. Together with Coach Kilar, she recognized the perseverance and commitment shown by this year’s varsity team. Although the win-loss record did not reflect the team’s full potential, their growth, resilience, and unity were undeniable.
This year’s varsity squad was led by five outstanding seniors — Peyton Clark, Danika Larson, Kaia Jones, Mya Graves-Koran, and Sydney Schilt — each leaving a lasting legacy on the Whippet Volleyball Program:
- Kaia Jones – the quiet leader with immense heart and determination.
- Danika Larson – a model of commitment and personal growth.
- Mya Graves-Koran – a steady setter who anchored the team.
- Peyton Clark – a versatile athlete who embodied perseverance.
- Sydney Schilt – a hardworking and passionate leader on offense and defense who set the tone on and off the court.
Together, these seniors set a standard of excellence and leadership that will continue to inspire future Whippet athletes.
2025 Whippet Volleyball Awards were presented to:
- Team Captains: Mya Graves-Koran, Kaia Jones, and Sydney Schilt
- Whippet Heart Award: Kaia Jones
- Most Improved Players: Junior Maddi Morton, Senior Danika Larson, and Sophomore Emery Kachel
- Offensive Player of the Year: Senior Sydney Schilt
- Defensive Player of the Year: Freshman Jasmine Kilar
- All-Conference Honorable Mention: Senior Kaia Jones and Senior Sydney Schilt
- Second Team All-Conference: Freshman Jasmine Kilar
- American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Phenom Watchlist: Freshman Jasmine Kilar
The Whippet Volleyball Program is proud of the achievements, character, and growth of its athletes and looks forward to continued success in the seasons ahead. The banquet was a true celebration of dedication, teamwork, and community — a reflection of the heart and effort that define Whippet Volleyball. As we say goodbye to our incredible seniors, we thank them for the leadership, passion, and legacy they leave behind, and we wish them all the best in their future endeavors. As the program closes one chapter and looks ahead to the next, the Whippet Volleyball family remains united in purpose — striving for excellence, supporting one another, and playing with pride in every set, every match, and every season.
Article and Photos Submitted by Mary Kilar
