By KYLER ROWDEN-STUM
Tiger Media Network
The Hays High volleyball team honored its seniors Tuesday night, celebrating a group that’s been at the core of the program’s growth and success over the past several seasons. The night was full of emotion and energy from the five senior leaders who have defined the team’s identity — Annie Humphrey, Zoe Winter, Moriah Hallam, Cassidy Smith, and Molly Buckles. The Indians made the occasion even sweeter by sweeping both Garden City (2-0) and Phillipsburg (2-0), closing out their home schedule in dominant fashion and improving to 19-9 overall and 4-1 in district play.
Hays High Head Coach Shannon Funk, now in her sixth season leading the Indians, reflected on how much this group has meant to her personally and professionally.
“This group is special,” Funk said. “I’ve been here six years. Annie has been here for four of those. She’s been on my varsity team for four years. And so it’s been really amazing to watch, not just her, but literally everybody, just really grow. All of these girls were on varsity last year, so they’re all returners. I’ve had each of them for at least two years, many of them for three and then Annie for four. Just being able to be a part of their volleyball journey and watching them grow — not just as athletes but as leaders — it’s been really cool that I get to be part of that.”
Each senior contributed in her own way throughout the season.
Winter has been a consistent offensive force, leading the team with 124 kills and a strong .181 hitting percentage. She’s also served up 26 aces and added 15 total blocks, showcasing her all-around game.
Buckles, another veteran presence at the net, has tallied 65 kills and a team-high 26 blocks on the season while hitting .213. Her leadership and composure have helped anchor Hays’ front row play.
Hallam has added 66 kills and 14 blocks, finding ways to energize the team both offensively and defensively. Smith has chipped in 15 kills, 19 aces, and 85 digs, proving to be a steady and dependable contributor in key moments.
And while Humphrey’s offensive stats don’t tell the whole story, her 197 digs and 23 service aces highlight her defensive tenacity and consistent serve receive work — the kind of impact every great team needs.
Funk said the seniors’ impact goes beyond numbers.
“When you coach kids, they imprint on your life and they teach you just as much as you teach them,” Funk said. “I’ve been doing this for 26 years, and they’ve been impactful in my career and my life. I grow because of the things they teach me.”
Buckles said the night was emotional but motivating as Hays prepares for postseason play.
“It just means a lot more being in the leadership role this year,” Buckles said. “Getting even closer with the girls and building a stronger connection has made this year a lot more special.”
Buckles, who’s been part of the program since middle school and spent three years on varsity, said her experience with Hays volleyball has shaped her beyond the court.
“Just the connection with the people, the coaches, the players — all the great people involved with this program — it’s just so much fun,” she said. “I’m so happy I was a part of it. We’re really excited to carry on this season. Hopefully, we can make a good run to State. This is just a great group of girls, and we’re hoping to go all the way.”
Funk said she feels confident about where the team stands heading into the postseason.
“We had a great weekend at a tournament, and I felt like we turned a corner,” Funk said. “The girls just keep getting better, and that’s what’s cool — that’s what I’m excited about for postseason.”
For the Hays High seniors, the night was more than a send-off — it was a celebration of years of dedication, teamwork, and love for the game. As the postseason looms, the Indians will carry that energy — and the leadership of their seniors — into their final push toward state.