Menu
New NMCC volleyball coach readies team for new season
NEW MADRID, Mo. — A two-week volleyball camp at New Madrid County Central High School was a chance for players to brush up on the basics of the game and for new high school coach Rae Jean Haines to learn more about her players’ skills.
The first week of the camp from July 17-21 brought more than 20 Central Middle School and High School students to the gym. From July 24-28, the High School students concentrated on their game in anticipation of upcoming varsity tryouts.
Haines said a strong foundation in the basics is essential for players.
During the past two weeks, Haines aided by assistant coaches Michaela Kimball and Casey Rost worked with the players primarily with their passing and serving. Haines called these crucial parts of the game.
“If you are not strong on basic skills then you don’t have anything to fall back on when things go wrong,” she explained.
In addition to the summer camp, Haines coached many of the players in a summer volleyball league.
“I have really seen an improvement in the girls in their overall play,” Haines said. “I am excited about seeing the ways they keep developing.”
Although new as the Central High School volleyball coach, Haines is well-versed in the game. She said she began playing in fifth grade then into junior high school. Her high school team earned honors her sophomore, junior and senior years.
Haines attended the University of Tennessee-Martin, where she played collegiate volleyball. Following graduation, she coached volleyball for 13 years. After being out of coaching for a decade, last year Haines occasionally assisted with the Eagle squad.
When the coaching position opened, Haines, a counselor at Central High School, said it was an easy decision to return to the game.
“This is a great group of girls. The are eager. They are willing to work hard. They are asking questions. They want to improve, get better and play,” she said. “When you get a group of girls that want to work hard, it is hard not to step in and help that group. This has been the group to bring me back.”
It hasn’t been easy though.
According to Haines two players were injured during the summer softball season. Their injuries will keep them from playing for the upcoming season.
However, the other players have shown a willingness to step up.
“There is a lot of potential. There is a lot of work to do but there is a lot to work with. They have a willingness to be coached and a desire to improve,” she said.
The team’s first official practice is set for Aug. 7. The players will take part in jamboree play on Aug. 22 in Portageville with the first regular game of the season to be played the last week of August.
Haines said fans will see a team that is enthusiastic about the game.
“I’m hoping our fans see a camaraderie in the team. A team whose morale is high with a willingness to try and improve,” she said. “These girls are working hard and are really tough. People already are noticing the difference in the team.”
As a coach, she said now her job is not only to work with them on the basic skills but the life lessons that are part of the game.
“I want them to see their possibilities and what they are capable of doing,” she said. “I see so much in this team and I want them to see it in themselves.”