Winning a state title is something that most high-school athletes strive for throughout their entire careers, now imagine winning not one, not two, but three state championships. The Titans beach volleyball teams enter this season as the defending girls team, girls pair and boys pair state champions.
“I try not to bring any attention to it, but it is a really rewarding feeling. There was a lot of hard work leading up to that moment and there’s even more to come,” junior Grant Lamoureux said.
Defending a state title comes with its downsides; they have something to prove. Having shown such great success this previous year, with all eyes on these athletes this season, they must work harder than before to continue their successful feat.
“In the back of our minds, we can definitely feel the pressure, but it’s such a motivating feeling. We want to say that we not only won states but we won back-to-back, and to prove to everyone watching and waiting for us to stumble that they’re wrong,” junior Emma Norman said.
Head coach Lauren Gillon started the beach volleyball program in 2016 and has been the coach since. As a coach, they want to see their athletes succeed and following previous success, she is looking for nothing different this season.
“I was very proud of all the athletes, but I hope we remain competitive this year. I always expect us to compete and have fun, and do well at the things that we can,” Gillon said.
With many new faces in the mix this season, these athletes are hopeful to continue on last years success and put their best foot forward.
“It makes me proud to be a part of this team this year. The standards are really high, but I try to not let it get to me and just do my best regardless,” sophomore Avalon Rayne said.
As they defend three state championships, the Titans have a high standard to prove to themselves and everyone watching them. With two weeks of the season under their belt, the future may be looking very bright for these athletes.
