4 Hawks named to all-conference volleyball lists

Four Shawano Community High School volleyball players earned spots on Bay Conference teams after strong fall seasons.

Junior Abby Bystol and freshman Leah Nordin each landed on the first team for the Hawks. Senior Alix Heath and junior Sam Richter were both honorable mentions.

Bystol was a first teamer for her play as a middle hitter.

She led the team with 45 kills in conference play. Bystol also recorded 15 aces, 18 digs and three blocks.

“Obviously it would be my goal to play my best volleyball senior year and get first team for the third year in a row to top off my individual season, but I hope this motivates not just me but my team,” said Bystol of how the honor will motivate her for next season. “We have a stacked team with both of the first team middles on our team and an honorable mention libero.

“This should give the whole team motivation and confidence to know what great things we can do next year. Ultimately, this is my main focus, for me to continue to work hard and benefit my team but also to work as a team in general. We know our potential, and we have to show it in order to surpass last year and take this team to a regional championship and beyond.”

Nordin quickly became a star in her first high school season. Even while missing some matches, the middle hitter finished with 42 kills, 12 blocks and 10 digs in Bay action.

“Receiving first team all-conference was a great way to end my freshman volleyball season,” Nordin said. “It felt great to know that the time and hard work I put in behind the scenes is paying off. There are many girls who have never received this award, so obtaining it as a freshman goes to show what I’m all about.

“I will use this award to motivate me even more to getting better and one day hopefully being able to bring home a state championship with the help of my team.”

Heath was honored for her work as a setter.

In Bay matches, she tallied 117 assists, 47 digs and served 15 aces.

“It’s a honor to be a part of all-conference. It really shows the dedication, passion, and willingness to not only improve but to put all your work into both practice and games to make all-conference,” said Heath. “As a team we definitely improved throughout the season and fought to make it have a amazing ending season.”

Richter made the honorable mention list as a libero.

The junior finished the conference portion of the schedule with 67 digs and 12 aces.

“I went into this season as a first time varsity player, and it was kind of nerve-racking for me,” said Richter. “I did my best throughout the season, and I’m glad my hard work paid off.

“I think that making an all-conference team motivates me to really push myself next season and learn from the mistakes I made. I’m hoping I can improve and be an even better player next year.”

Shawano tied for second in the conference standings after going 5-2. The Hawks made it to a regional title game before being eliminated in the postseason.

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