Written by Jake Keiter and featured in out September 13th, Print Edition
Northern Lebanon High School’s volleyball sensation, Bailey McFeaters, is not just a senior, but she’s also the dynamic captain of the Girls Volleyball team, leading her squad to new heights. In an exclusive interview, McFeaters takes us through her remarkable journey as a volleyball player, her experiences on the team, and her plans for the future.
A Natural Transition
Bailey McFeaters didn’t start her sports journey on the volleyball court. “I started in 7th grade,” she recalls. “I actually danced all through elementary school. One of my friends, Alexis Shirk, who graduated last year, encouraged me to come out and try. I came out my seventh grade year and instantly loved it. Love it more than dance and softball, and it just came so natural to me. Being good at it helps as well.”
A Year-Round Dedication
Bailey’s passion for the sport quickly led her to pursue it year-round. “I started with school ball then immediately moved to a club league, then a summer league,” she says. “So playing all year long helps me continue my journey. Plus, meeting all the other girls and playing with a variety of players and teams helps me improve.”
A Middle Blocker with Ambition
As a middle blocker, Bailey embraces the opportunity to make game-changing plays. “I like to be able to end the point and get a kill,” she explains. “I love having a setter who we can create new plays with.”
Historic Achievements
Bailey’s journey has seen significant achievements, with one of the most memorable being last year’s district runner-up title. “Last year we were district runner-ups, so that has definitely been the highlight of our career,” she proudly mentions. “Our record last year was 17-3. We made runner-up and then lost to Twin Valley. We made it to states but lost in the first round. This was the first time volleyball has made it to states, so it was making history for the community.”
Balancing Academics and Athletics
When it comes to balancing academics and her commitment to the volleyball team, Bailey acknowledges the importance of prioritizing school. “Our coaches have always been very helpful with that,” she says. “They have always said school is our main priority and encourage us to focus on that before we can play.”
Influential Coaches
Bailey attributes much of her growth to her coaches, especially Justin Meyer. “Definitely Justin Meyer, him and his wife Pam, coach at the club I play at,” she says. “They coached us up until last year. They both played at the Division 1 level and they are both very competitive and encouraging.”
Team Dynamics and Chemistry
Bailey reflects on the dynamics within the team, highlighting the individual talent and the importance of building chemistry. “There is a lot of individual talent between the girls,” she notes. “It’s going to be about establishing that chemistry. We are all really good friends and work well together, but it is overall a good team and just have to work on working together and having fun.”
Goals for the Future
Bailey’s personal goals for this upcoming volleyball season include working on her skills and being a strong leader for her team, regardless of the outcome. “Even if we don’t make it as far as we did last year, to remain a good leader to the rest of the team.”
College Aspirations
Looking ahead, Bailey is considering Elizabethtown for Occupational Therapy and possibly West Chester for her college education.
Motivation and Lessons
Staying motivated during tough games and practices can be challenging, but Bailey’s positive outlook and focus on improvement keep her going. “By the end of the season, it’s hard to keep the motivation and keeping that drive,” she admits. “But it’s important to keep that motivation regardless of how exhausted you are mentally and physically.”
Advice for Aspiring Players
Bailey’s advice to younger players echoes the importance of enjoying the journey. “Just have fun, no matter what,” she emphasizes. “If you only think about the competitiveness, you will miss out on the laughter and fun times on and off the court.”
Transferable Skills
Playing volleyball has equipped Bailey with valuable skills and qualities that will serve her well in the future. “Definitely the team aspect is transferable to school and your future career,” she explains. “Also, being a leader is something I’ve been able to establish from playing volleyball.”
A Future in Coaching
As for her future in volleyball, Bailey sees herself giving back to the sport by coaching. “Definitely coaching,” she says. “The club team I play for has often had girls come back after graduating to help coach and mentor.”
A Message for the Fans
Bailey expresses her excitement for the continued support from fans. “We had a huge fan base last year who traveled with us from game to game, and I am excited to see if it carries on this year.”
Bailey McFeaters is not just a star on the volleyball court; she’s a well-rounded student-athlete with a bright future ahead, both in academics and in her passion for volleyball. Northern Lebanon High School is undoubtedly proud to have her as a part of their team, leading with skill, determination, and a love for the game.
Title: Bailey McFeaters: Northern Lebanon High School’s Volleyball Sensation
Northern Lebanon High School’s volleyball sensation, Bailey McFeaters, is not just a senior, but she’s also the dynamic captain of the Girls Volleyball team, leading her squad to new heights. In an exclusive interview, McFeaters takes us through her remarkable journey as a volleyball player, her experiences on the team, and her plans for the future.
A Natural Transition
Bailey McFeaters didn’t start her sports journey on the volleyball court. “I started in 7th grade,” she recalls. “I actually danced all through elementary school. One of my friends, Alexis Shirk, who graduated last year, encouraged me to come out and try. I came out my seventh grade year and instantly loved it. Love it more than dance and softball, and it just came so natural to me. Being good at it helps as well.”
A Year-Round Dedication
Bailey’s passion for the sport quickly led her to pursue it year-round. “I started with school ball then immediately moved to a club league, then a summer league,” she says. “So playing all year long helps me continue my journey. Plus, meeting all the other girls and playing with a variety of players and teams helps me improve.”
A Middle Blocker with Ambition
As a middle blocker, Bailey embraces the opportunity to make game-changing plays. “I like to be able to end the point and get a kill,” she explains. “I love having a setter who we can create new plays with.”
Historic Achievements
Bailey’s journey has seen significant achievements, with one of the most memorable being last year’s district runner-up title. “Last year we were district runner-ups, so that has definitely been the highlight of our career,” she proudly mentions. “Our record last year was 17-3. We made runner-up and then lost to Twin Valley. We made it to states but lost in the first round. This was the first time volleyball has made it to states, so it was making history for the community.”
Balancing Academics and Athletics
When it comes to balancing academics and her commitment to the volleyball team, Bailey acknowledges the importance of prioritizing school. “Our coaches have always been very helpful with that,” she says. “They have always said school is our main priority and encourage us to focus on that before we can play.”
Influential Coaches
Bailey attributes much of her growth to her coaches, especially Justin Meyer. “Definitely Justin Meyer, him and his wife Pam, coach at the club I play at,” she says. “They coached us up until last year. They both played at the Division 1 level and they are both very competitive and encouraging.”
Team Dynamics and Chemistry
Bailey reflects on the dynamics within the team, highlighting the individual talent and the importance of building chemistry. “There is a lot of individual talent between the girls,” she notes. “It’s going to be about establishing that chemistry. We are all really good friends and work well together, but it is overall a good team and just have to work on working together and having fun.”
Goals for the Future
Bailey’s personal goals for this upcoming volleyball season include working on her skills and being a strong leader for her team, regardless of the outcome. “Even if we don’t make it as far as we did last year, to remain a good leader to the rest of the team.”
College Aspirations
Looking ahead, Bailey is considering Elizabethtown for Occupational Therapy and possibly West Chester for her college education.
Motivation and Lessons
Staying motivated during tough games and practices can be challenging, but Bailey’s positive outlook and focus on improvement keep her going. “By the end of the season, it’s hard to keep the motivation and keeping that drive,” she admits. “But it’s important to keep that motivation regardless of how exhausted you are mentally and physically.”
Advice for Aspiring Players
Bailey’s advice to younger players echoes the importance of enjoying the journey. “Just have fun, no matter what,” she emphasizes. “If you only think about the competitiveness, you will miss out on the laughter and fun times on and off the court.”
Transferable Skills
Playing volleyball has equipped Bailey with valuable skills and qualities that will serve her well in the future. “Definitely the team aspect is transferable to school and your future career,” she explains. “Also, being a leader is something I’ve been able to establish from playing volleyball.”
A Future in Coaching
As for her future in volleyball, Bailey sees herself giving back to the sport by coaching. “Definitely coaching,” she says. “The club team I play for has often had girls come back after graduating to help coach and mentor.”
A Message for the Fans
Bailey expresses her excitement for the continued support from fans. “We had a huge fan base last year who traveled with us from game to game, and I am excited to see if it carries on this year.”
Bailey McFeaters is not just a star on the volleyball court; she’s a well-rounded student-athlete with a bright future ahead, both in academics and in her passion for volleyball. Northern Lebanon High School is undoubtedly proud to have her as a part of their team, leading with skill, determination, and a love for the game.
