Casey Phillips
Duncan Volleyball
Duncan High School varsity volleyball player Casey Phillips is a senior this year and a member of the Student Council, Jolly Jills Social Club, and serves as the boys’ varsity basketball manager. The senior class Vice President also participates in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and National Honor Society. For Phillips, being a student-athlete at

Duncan HS is something special.

“Duncan HS is a great place to be a student-athlete because we prioritize our schoolwork. My volleyball coach, coach Lard, has a strict policy about our grades. We pride ourselves on being the smartest team in Class 5A. Last year we were named academic state champions and the two years before that we received academic excellence awards. We work very hard to balance our schoolwork with our athletics,” said Phillips.

Volleyball was not always her favorite sport. Growing up, Phillips was a gymnast.

“I was a gymnast for eight years growing up. I loved gymnastics but it took up all of my free time and I never tried another sport until I ended my gymnastics career in fifth grade. I first went to softball and that was just not for me. In seventh grade, I decided I would play volleyball, and that started the love I have for the sport today,” said Phillips.

Finding a home with the volleyball team has been special for Phillips.

“Being on the volleyball team, I have most enjoyed getting to be on a team and getting to be so close with the girls. It is hard to see people come and go every year, but it is so fun to have a new team dynamic every year. My favorite memory so far this year is homecoming. It was so fun to be a part of the homecoming court and participate in the pep rally and game. Seeing everyone all dressed up at the game was also a good memory. Most of all… I was crowned homecoming queen. The moment they said my name I could not believe it and I felt a big rush of happiness and excitement. I feel good knowing I have made a positive impact on my classmates,” said Phillips.

Phillips said she is proud of what her teammates have accomplished this season. “I am proud of all of my teammates this season. I am so proud of Amiya Williams. She has come a long way since freshmen year, and I am so glad I got to be there to see her improve. She is an excellent hitter, and she is one of the most supportive teammates I have ever had. I am so glad I got the chance to play with her the past few years. She is going do big things. This group of girls is hardworking, supportive, and open-minded. Even when one girl is having a bad day, everyone is there to rally around her and get her back in good spirits. Having teammates who are supportive is crucial. This team also communicates very well which is also critical during a game and even off the court. They are open-minded to trying new things like being put in a completely new spot. Being flexible is good because you always need to be able to step in wherever you are needed,” said Phillips.

Phillips said her favorite subject is math and she is looking forward to college life after
graduation.

“My favorite subject is math. I have always enjoyed the challenge of math and getting to learn new things. It comes naturally to me, so I enjoy it. I would say my favorite math teacher I have had is Mr. Holthe. In college, I am hoping to study nursing. I want to achieve my RN and continue to CRNA school. While attending CRNA school I will work as a nurse until graduation. By the end of it, I will officially be a nurse anesthetist,” said Phillips.

As for the Class of 2024?

“I want my class to be remembered for being involved. I want us to be used as an example of how involved and excited you should be to help in school and participate in school activities,” said Phillips.
Photo by shotzbysyd