Warriors Win County Middle School Volleyball Crown

J.C. Booth bested Rising Starr to claim the county middle school volleyball championship.

Against Rising Starr, the Warriors took the first set 25-19 and won the second set 25-21 to take the title. It was the culmination of a dominant 10-0 season with every match a straight-sets win. In every set, they held the opposition to 21 points or less.

“I couldn’t be more proud of this group. This championship belongs to every player, every teammate, and every person who contributed to this journey,” said Booth coach Maggie Burke. “More importantly, I hope these girls leave this season knowing that when they face challenges in volleyball, in school, or in life, they are capable of overcoming them together. This team will always be remembered not just for winning a championship, but for the way they fought for it, the way they supported one another, and the way they never stopped believing.”

Burke noted that the belief started to gel back in August. They trailed Rising Starr by 10 points in a set and had their backs against the wall. They had suffered an injury and were out of timeouts, but they rallied for each other and pulled off a huge rally.

“They trusted one another, fought for every ball, and refused to let the circumstances determine the outcome. They went on an incredible run, finished the set strong, and carried that same mentality with them for the rest of the season,” said Burke. “From that moment forward, the girls began to understand just how capable they were. Every challenge became an opportunity to respond. Every setback became an opportunity to fight harder. Every difficult moment became another chance to trust their teammates and believe in themselves.”

The title was a team effort, but Burke highlighted a few exceptional performances. She called Lauren Halbert and Cora Lamoure true standouts who made a tremendous impact as all-around outside players. Harper Benton was the defensive lifeline. Isadora Mendes was a strong and reliable server who kept the team organized as a setter together with Annabelle Bernstein. Middle hitters Deliah Peoples and Alyssa High came through when the team needed them most.

“There were no players simply standing on the sidelines this season—everyone had a role, everyone mattered, and everyone contributed,” said Burger. “Whether it was making a big play, encouraging a teammate, battling through adversity, or simply being there when the team needed them, these girls consistently put the team before themselves. That selflessness and belief in one another made this group so special.”

The champion Warriors are Izzy Antoniolli, Harper Benton, Annabelle Bernstein, Blythe Bowers, Molly Fortner, Averi Gillispie, Lauren Halbert, Alyssa High, Cora Lemoure, Juliet Meier, Isadora Mendes, and Deliah Peoples.

They are coached by Maggie Burke and Kim Kozak. Sarah Cowart is the team manager.