CLAREMONT – Stevens volleyball hosted their senior night on Thursday, as they celebrated their four seniors with their second set-win of the season. They fell to Franklin in a tight battle, 3-1: 16-25, 22-25, 25-21, and 18-25.
Stevens head coach Kathryn Plouffe addressed the crowd before Thursday’s game, saying, “Thank you to all the parents and the players for being here through a season of ups and down and I am truly blessed with a great group of young ladies.”
Coach Plouffe said that when she graduated in 1999 as a soccer player that she was part of a “fab-four” and it is only fitting that she started her volleyball coaching journey with a fab four of her own.
The four Stevens seniors being honored Thursday night were Madeline Ferland (captain), Madison Aldrich (captain), Tryanna Liolis and Shyleene Windship.
“Shyleene and Madison Aldrich have been a part of this program for the last 4 years and they both have taught me so much about the program and all the ones who have played before,” said Plouffe. “Shyleene taught me and the girls the best advocate for you is yourself… ‘Speak up and own it.’
“Madison taught the girls how four years goes by fast so take the time to enjoy it,” said Plouffe.
“Tryanna and Madeline, even though they have only been here for two seasons, are welcome to the oldest active alumni in the country and that is something to be proud of,” Plouffe said. “Tryanna taught the girls that you need to fight and continue to fight for yourself and the team.”
On Ferland, coach Plouffe said, “Madeline… where do I begin, she taught the girls to play with heart and pride and the need to fight for it… working hard pays off in the end. She has fought so hard the last two seasons that she will be playing in the All-Star game in November.
“I wish these seniors nothing but the best in their future endeavors. My fab-four will be missed. As for the remaining girls, the off-season starts now. These girls have come a long way this season and have overcome a lot and have worked hard. This season is one for the books and they all should be proud of what we accomplished this season. I am one proud coach.”
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