CLINTON
RED TORNADOES
Coach: GABBIE PARSONS
6-24
The Clinton Red Tornadoes are determined to prove themselves this season. “We have an exciting season coming up,” head coachGabbie Parsons said. “We will be young but we have a lot of talent and upperclassmen that are amazing leaders. Our team chemistry is amazing. The work ethic and drive to make this team be what it should be this year is great to see.”
The team ended last season in regionals and a 6-24 record but are ready to build off of last season and see improvement.
With her uncommon dedication and talent, Senior Laxi Conway will be the leader of the team. “She [Conway] is our senior setter and she is one of our most devoted players to the game of volleyball,” Parsons said.
“She is determined on every pass to make sure her hitters have a great set to hit. She is quick to make sure her teammates know that she has their back. She is an amazing leader. She is always in the gym ready to lead when needed and lend a helpful hand if ever someone is struggling.”
Several underclassmen, like sophomore Brooklyn Aston, will have greater roles on the team this year — not only with her skills on the court, but with her voice. “Brooklyn will be a sophomore this year. She is
someone that is confident in her teammates. She always lifts them up when they are down,” Parsons said. “She is a momentum player. She thrives on momentum for her team but the moment it gets flipped she is
quick to find a way to get it back.”
Aliyah Lopez, also a sophomore, has already earned a reputation for her gritty play, and with that play has come a nickname. “Aliyah will be a sophomore. This girl is called ‘beast’ for a reason. She has more grit and drive than I have seen in a long time,” Parsons said. “No matter how hard the ball can be to play, somehow she makes it happen. She will be an amazing person to watch this season and see how she grows into the player she can be.”
Sophomore Mia Vasquez’s presence on the court helps the Tornadoes remain calm and collected in tense situations. “You can never know what she is thinking or how she is feeling. You won’t know if she’s mad,” Parsons said. “Most of the time she carries a smile on her face and regardless of the outcome she is always there to lift the spirits of her teammates if need be.”
