Comets Volleyball Seniors Lead with Resilience, Identity, and Joy
Tonight, when the Hillcrest volleyball team faces CGB, the gym will be filled not only with cheers for the Comets but also with gratitude and celebration for the seniors who have carried this team with resilience and steady leadership. Senior Night is always a bittersweet milestone, but for this group it is a reminder of how discipline, character, and identity in Christ have defined their journey.
Together, these seniors have forged a team marked by discipline, identity, and character. Their resilience has guided the Comets through challenges, and their leadership has left an indelible mark on the players who will follow. Tonight, the celebration is not only about their final home match but about the culture of joy, faith, and perseverance they leave behind.
As libero, Chloe Walkup has been the steady heartbeat of the defense. She embodies the reminder that every game is played for an Audience of One, working tirelessly in the back row while lifting her teammates with joy. Her favorite memories of team camps show how deeply she has valued the bonds built as much as the battles won.
With humor and faith, Ruby Walkup has embodied the spirit of volleyball as a team sport. Her memories of storms, laughter, and even elevator mishaps reveal a senior who values togetherness above all. She is preparing to follow God’s call into ministry, and her presence has reminded teammates that the game is about encouraging one another and shining Christ’s light.
Natalie Maggert brings creativity and strength to the court, but her impact goes deeper. Her reminder that “your identity is in God and not volleyball or anything else” captures the heartbeat of this senior class. With seven years of dedication to the Comets, Natalie has emphasized joy and identity in every game, shaping the culture of the program.
Co-captain Kenzie Miller has provided strength and calm at the net as a middle hitter, anchoring the Comets with courage and poise. Her advice to focus on things that are eternal reflects the quiet strength that has made her such a steady leader. Her faith has fueled her ability to compete with intensity while keeping her eyes on ChristVolleyball Senior programs.
Captain Ella Knutson has led with contagious energy both on the court and off. Her words to her teammates to “let the joy of Jesus fill you” have become a team anthem. Whether pounding kills from the outside or laughing at inside jokes during warmups, Ella has modeled how to give 100% with a smile and a prayer, grounding her leadership in Colossians 3:23.
Maddie Miller has given seven years to Comet volleyball and has shown how perseverance and humility shape a competitor. Known for her clutch performances—like the unforgettable comeback win against Park Christian—Maddie reminds her teammates to love Jesus, work hard, and stay humble. Her drive to push her body to new limits is rooted in glorifying God with the gifts He has given herVolleyball Senior programs.
The managers have also played a vital role in this season. Annalise Anderson has poured her heart into helping her teammates, offering encouragement and memories that extend beyond the scoreboard. Her playful advice to “take all the pictures” reflects her understanding that these moments will be treasured for years to comeVolleyball Senior programs.
Olivia Buttke has served faithfully behind the scenes, offering support, laughter, and encouragement that have shaped the team’s spirit. Her words to “just be yourself” have pointed teammates back to their identity in God, a theme that echoes throughout this senior classVolleyball Senior programs.