Bobcats primed for a strong season under new leadership

PHIL CAMPBELL — The Bobcats are gearing up for the 2025 volleyball season with high hopes and a new coach at the helm.

After finishing last season with a 16-19 record and a close loss to Winfield in the Super Regional, the Bobcats are ready to take the next step. Leading the charge is their new head coach, Lanice White, who brings an extensive volleyball background from Tennessee and Alabama.

The team is wellequipped with a solid core of returning players. Senior Avery Cummings, a key outside hitter, will lead the offensive attack. She’ll be supported by a strong frontline that includes seniors Roxi Molina and junior Lilly Stewart in the middle, along with junior Adeline Huderman on the right side.

On defense, junior libero Ragan Moss will anchor the back row and handle serve receive.

In addition to their returning veterans, the Bobcats have several promising newcomers to watch. Sophomores Aspen Misner and Lexxi Santoni have stepped into roles as an outside hitter and a defensive specialist/ setter, respectively.

Phil Campbell also welcomes newcomer and setter Zella White.

Coach White is particularly excited about the team’s on-court chemistry and how well they play together. She said she believes this strong bond will be a major asset as they face the challenges of the season.

One of the main hurdles they will have to overcome is their youth and relative lack of experience.

White notes that, like many young teams, mistakes can sometimes “snowball,” and she’s working with her players to manage those moments. She’s said she’s also discovered that her players are their own harshest critics, a trait she is helping them navigate.

Despite these challenges, the Bobcats’ blend of experienced leadership and promising young talent, coupled with White’s expertise, suggests a bright outlook for the season ahead.

ABOUT THE COACH

White takes over for Julianna Taylor, who was head coach for two years and took the Bobcats to the Class 3A Super Regionals for two consecutive seasons. White steps in to lead a still-young program, bringing with her a coaching and teaching career that began in 2000. She inherits a team with a strong foundation and high expectations.

LANICE WHITE

“I was drawn to Phil Campbell High School because of its high academic standards and the amazing culture within its volleyball program,” White said.

Her immediate goals include pushing the team beyond the super regionals, and competing with the top programs in northwest Alabama.

Ultimately, White wants “to put Phil Campbell on the map as a premiere volleyball program.”

White’s coaching journey started in 2008. Her philosophy is built on developing more than just athletic skills. Inspired by legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden, she aims to build “character, discipline and resilience while cultivating a competitive spirit.”