The three Mexico volleyball seniors have known each other a while.
Since middle school, Charley Jackson, Camy Blackburn and Layla Belcher have been playing volleyball and they came together to …
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The three Mexico volleyball seniors have known each other a while.
Since middle school, Charley Jackson, Camy Blackburn and Layla Belcher have been playing volleyball and they came together to win for Mexico on Oct. 13 during Senior Night. The Lady Bulldogs swept Brookfield 25-5, 25-16 and 25-14.
Mexico remained undefeated against Brookfield, who fell to 5-14, but improved to 5-18. The seniors got involved early and helped Mexico dominate the first set. At the end of the night, Jackson led with 12 kills and had two aces, Blackburn had six kills and Belcher finished with two kills and 12 digs.
“We came out excited because of the energy of tonight,” Jackson said. “We were all excited to play and wanted to play our last game at home.”
Jackson said she seemed to be “focused” and the team just “clicked,” and Belcher said Mexico’s “talking” was really good. This all came together in being “together” rather than “disconnected.”
The seniors have been together a while and know each other well. Belcher said they have all played four years in high school, but she has known the other two girls since sixth grade.
“We all came together more throughout the years,” Belcher said. “I think that shows on the court.”
Jackson said they have all played well with the other girls as well.
“We’ve all gotten more confident on this team,” Jackson said. “We’ve also gotten really close.”
Blackburn said she has played club volleyball with Jackson for multiple years and playing on this team the past few years has helped her as a person.
“I got more friendships,” Blackburn said. “I came out of my shell.”
Head coach Tami Sells said Mexico tried to focus on having more fun, and the rotation was purposely altered a bit to give the seniors more playing time. She said they all seized those opportunities and took charge.
Sells said they’ll all “leave a legacy” for the team, and they have all made friendships since they were freshmen. She said they all get along well with the other girls.
“Their personalities,” Sells said when asked what she liked most about the seniors. “They’re all three very different personalities, and they all bring different things that are key to the success of our team. Some of them are more quiet leaders and some are more outspoken, but they’re all really good role models for our entire team.”
Jackson said the bus rides in middle school are still memorable to her, partly because she had the other girls with her. Volleyball has meant a lot to her like it has for Belcher and Blackburn.
“I’m really appreciative of all the people I’ve met,” Jackson said. “It’s just crazy how many deep connections have been through one thing.”
No. 5 seed Mexico begins the Class 3 District 6 tournament in Fulton against No. 4 seed Bowling Green (7-13-3) at 5 p.m. tonight.
