WEST POINT, Ala. — The West Point Lady Warriors didn’t have the best season last season in volleyball, but the future is definitely bright for them. Freshman Patton Brookfell talked about that season, what all she learned, her first year on varsity, and what she took away from that experience.
“It wasn’t the greatest. We definitely had our highs and lows, but towards the end of the season, we grew a lot closer. Even though we didn’t win county, we put everything we had into the game. I learned that sports isn’t just about winning. It’s about having fun, making friends, and treating everyone like they’re your family. We’ve learned how to show respect towards others,” Fell said. “It was a very humbling and fun experience. It was different at first because I was so young, but it was pretty easy adjusting to everyone since I was already friends with them. I learned that picking up your teammates also makes you feel better, which helped contribute to the team’s attitude and performance.”
Patton played for head coach Kate Kent last season and talked about what she’s like as a coach, plus some things she learned from her.
“She is very encouraging, and she always builds us up. She has helped me realize that every play won’t be perfect, but as long as we try to fix our mistakes, it’s okay. She pushes us to be the best we can and continues to show us love, no matter what.”
Patton learned some things from last year’s upperclassmen, and she will work on some things to get ready for next season.
“I learned that they have my back no matter what and I can trust them,” she said. “I’ll work on a lot of setting. More specifically, finishing my hands and getting to the target early so I can be prepared and get ready to set.”
Patton talked about her goals and the team goals for next season, plus what will make the team special to watch.
“My team goals are to win county and area. My individual goals are to get all-county, gain more confidence in my playing ability, and to be a motivator for our team,” she said. “I feel like we are a very energetic and scrappy team. We work hard in practice to play good in games, and we put our time and effort into this sport.”
Patton talked a little bit about next year’s seniors and what they are like, plus the best advice that she was ever given.
“They are very encouraging and uplifting. They pray with us before every game to prepare us and help us know our strength is through God,” she said. “The best advice I’ve ever gotten was from my dad. He told me to keep my head up no matter what, have fun, and just play for the Lord.”
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