The Cathedral High School volleyball team used the definition of the word fight — the ability, will and inclination to strive vigorously toward our destiny — as its motto.
Though the message did not lead to the program’s usual level of success on the court as the Irish’s 10-year sectional championship streak was snapped when they were eliminated in the first round by Warren Central, 25-22, 25-23, 25-20, on Tuesday, coach Jean Kesterson believes that attitude and this season will lead to success in life for the players.

“I told the seniors their destiny may not be on the volleyball court but that God has big plans for them,” she said. “One wants to be a doctor, another a teacher and the other go into business or be a counselor. It hit me that, as well as they did working with our young kids, that’s their bigger destiny.”

The team had to endure the death of its biggest fan, Sister Dolores Neelis, then the mother of player Kayla Masterson, Suz, died of leukemia a week later. Setter Erin Bucherl battled mononucleosis, Kathryn Treadway missed time with a concussion and the team was dealing with illness as it failed to win sectionals for just the second time in 22 years.

“It was a tough year for all involved but still rewarding,” Kesterson said. “We could have easily walked away and quit but the players kept fighting. The young kids got better and the older kids, though they went through their frustrations with the younger kids, helped mentor them. The legacy of this team will be next year.
“I’m going to miss those (seniors).”