Senior Athlete Lilly Johnson has been a loyal member of the Kahoks volleyball team since her freshman year. Over the years, Lilly has improved quickly, playing varsity right after her freshman year, and she has made many fun memories playing with some of her best friends that she will never forget. 

“I have been playing volleyball for roughly nine years,” said Lilly. “My favorite memory would have to be the bus rides home with all of the seniors just talking about the game and life; We had so much fun.”

The team played many games where they overcame the challenges of keeping high energy during difficult games, 

“We all did our best to keep smiles on our faces and use encouraging words to one another,” she expressed.

Many athletes have pregame rituals, but Lilly and her teammates’ pregame ritual is unique. 

“We started a little tradition before each game where we tried to have a dance party in the locker room.”, Johnson said. This keeps energy high on the court and allows for fun, which is one of the main factors in winning the match. 

In the future, Lilly does not plan to continue her volleyball career. However, she is furthering her education at cosmetology school, inspired by doing all her teammates’ hair before the games, homecoming, and media day pictures.

 When asked to describe her team in one word, Lilly chose “Nostalgic.”

 Most of the seniors have played together since middle school, and one other since freshman year, so we have so many memories together,” she said, revealing the genuine friendship among teammates.

Lilly has offered advice for younger volleyball players, hoping this impacts them. 

“Volleyball is such a great experience for young girls to find a family and really know what it’s like to have support systems. It has given me so many long-term friends.”

Lilly has left her mark on the Lady Kahoks volleyball program.