One match or one point cannot sum up four years of volleyball. Ruth Warren remembers the people who shared those seasons with her and how much her Tahlequah team grew together.
Warren, a senior defensive specialist at Tahlequah High School, has played there throughout high school. She is proudest of the progress they made together.
“I’ve played volleyball all four years of high school, and I’m proud of how we have grown as a team,” Warren said. “I’m also proud of my coaches and how supportive they have always been.”
Volleyball has taught Warren over time that wanting something does not make it happen. Progress has to be earned.
“Life doesn’t always give you what you want, but you have to work your way up to get where you want to be,” she said.
That lesson feels personal because Warren has watched her father keep going through difficult stretches.
“He has never given up when life has given him every reason to,” Warren said. “I hope I’m half the person he is.”
Avry Bynum is the teammate Warren turns to for encouragement.
“She’s been by my side from the start,” Warren said. “She’s my cheerleader when I’m not feeling my best on the court.”
That support has not stopped at the gym. Mrs. Langston has also been someone Warren could count on at school.
“She’s always been there for me and has taught me so much, not just as a student but as a person,” Warren said. “I’m so thankful for her and all she has done for me.”
Warren is thankful to God for the opportunity and strength to play and to her parents for standing behind her. As she moves beyond high school, she will carry one simple piece of advice with her: “Get up and keep going.”
