“Wouldn't Trade It for the World”: The Recap of Filly Volleyball
By: K.S. Stinson, Staff Writer
The Fillies have wrapped up their 2025 season, ending with a loss to Lovell in the State Championship. Although this loss would not characterize their season, as Allison Gee said, “the success of a season is not measured by one moment or one game, but by the collective growth of a team and individuals over the course of a season.” The Fillies had a strong year, despite falling short of a title, with a 35-3 record over the course of the season (best in 3A). As Coach Starr said, “this is the best team I have ever coached.” Along with this, the Fillies brought home a Regional Championship, losing only two sets in all three of their regional games, and have created a strong sense of culture and unity within the team.
“We have learned how to find each other on the court,” said Coach Starr when asked to explain how the team has improved over the course of the season. On top of that, Coach Starr also said, “this team has improved in every facet of the game from passing to blocking.” This play was on full display during the Fillies' Regional Championship run, as they won 9-2 sets in the tournament, dropping only one set to Lovell in the Championship game.
The State game might not have gone the Fillies' way, but they still had a successful season with a 35-3 record, a Regional title, and while still managing to outscore Lovell 110 to 108 over the course of their five-set Championship match. The Fillies played Lovell five times over the course of the season, winning four out of their five meetings and losing only three total sets to Lovell in those four wins. In fact, the Fillies only lost to one team over the course of the regular season, and that was the 4A State Champions, Kelly Walsh.
Both long-time Cody volleyball coaches, Keith Francik and Starr, with over 25 years of coaching collectively, agreed that their team “this year was the best team Cody has ever seen.” The Fillies did bring home the Regional title and had five players earn All-Conference honors, and four earn All-State, more than any team in 3A this year
The senior girls may only be taking home a Regional title, but for Gracie Buck, “volleyball has been more than just a sport. It’s been a journey of growth, resilience, and learning that the results you want only come from the work you are willing to give.” Other seniors shared similar thoughts on volleyball and this year's team in particular, with McKenna Kondelis saying, “this volleyball season was filled with so many memories,” Maddie Beaudrie added, “this was by far my favorite season of volleyball.” Belief in each other proved to be a significant factor that set this team apart from others, as Ellie Talich said, “each girl on the court wanted the girl next to them to succeed.” Volleyball goes beyond what is on a stat sheet or what can be measured for this group. Most of all, the seniors expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play together with Sydney Simone, stating, “I am so thankful for this team and the opportunity it brought.”
This group has demonstrated that they are one of the most dominant teams in 3A this year, having won a regional title, compiled a 35-3 record, and won four of five games against Lovell, despite losing to them in the State Championship. The fate of this year's team is sealed, but next year’s team has high potential, as they return some key assets, led by Grace Hays, Mia Broussard, Evelyn Augedahl, and Macy Ball. When asked about next year's team, Grace Hays said, “I am excited to see how the team shapes up next year with several younger players coming into key roles.” Ultimately, whether they won or lost, volleyball meant more to this team and its players, and is a reflection of the bond they have formed with one another. The Fillies’ journey does not end here, as many look ahead to future seasons and new opportunities.