Volleyball team recognized for record-setting season

RUSSELLVILLE — The city council at its Nov. 17 meeting recognized the Russellville High School volleyball team for a season that included a 41-16 overall record, new school records and several individual milestones.

The council recognized senior outside hitter Laila Hill, who earned the most season kills in school history with 450.

Hill said she enjoys being on the court with her friends and making memories with her teammates.

“It feels good,” she said. “I’ve been working really hard.”

The council also recognized senior setter Fatima Ramirez for setting the school record for most season assists with 576.

“I feel really proud, happy,” Ramirez said.

Tenth grade libero Bri McCulloch said she has played school volleyball since seventh grade and travel ball since she was 10.

“I like making the memories,” McCulloch said. “We help each other out.”

Head coach Madison Lamon said the team handled tough moments throughout the season.

“They stepped up when they needed to and made school history,” she said. “They’re a great group of girls, and they show grit.”

She said she hopes the players carry those lessons into their lives beyond athletics.

“When they get in tough situations, not to back down. They’ve shown that all year.”

Assistant coach Chelsea Graves said volleyball’s energy and communication stood out to her.

“It’s a team sport, so you have to work together and communicate,” Graves said.

She said the players worked hard all season and earned their achievements.

“They really showed grit this season, teamwork, and they worked together all season.”

Assistant coach Lexi Lamon said the team built strong relationships that supported their play on the court. She said she hopes the players take the hard work they put in and use it in other areas of their personal lives. Assistant coach Lee Taylor Bishop said she has watched the team’s trust and resilience grow.

“Their friendship has grown a lot,” Bishop said. “Whenevertheyhadatough situation, they bounced back immediately.”

In other business council members: Held public hearings and approved alcohol licenses for Raceway at 14816 Highway 43 and for El Jefe Tex Mex at 14204 Highway 43, Suite A. No one spoke during either hearing before the council voted to approve both licenses.

Approved an updated roster for the volunteer fire department and accepted the resignation of Dallas Hopkins in the Street Department.

The next regular council meeting is set for Dec. 1.