McAdams volleyball begins the season with an experienced team but an inexperienced coach. Kris Upchurch is not only new to coaching McAdams, he is new to coaching volleyball at all.
“I'm a softball coach and a football coach. I'm learning this game as best I can,” he said.
Experience on the court should be the team's best attribute according to Upchurch. “They have been together for four years. We are going to lean on that.”
There are eight seniors on the roster.
“We’re getting better. They put in a lot of work over the summer.”
Beginning July 24, the first day allowed for preseason practice by the MHSAA, the players have been early risers for 6 a.m. practices. “For them to get up and come shows they want to get the work in. They have some fire. Now we have to see what we are made of.”
Upchurch singled out senior Da’naya Griffin as the team leader. “She is one of the smaller players in stature (5-4), but she definitely is our leader. She commands the floor and makes sure everybody is where they should be.”
Senior Ameri Gadson is recovering from knee surgery, but is expected to return to the court next month. “I’m looking forward to her return. She will be a welcome addition,” Upchurch said.
In the meantime, the family will be well represented by her sister, talented sophomore Taliah Gadson.
The season began with a match at Kosciusko Tuesday, and will continue a week later at home against Louisville. The Lady Bulldogs will be competing in Region 6-1A with Ethel, Nanih Waiya, Noxapater and Velma Jackson. Because he is new to the sport, Upchurch could not name a favorite.
“All the teams in our district will be viable opponents. We’re in an uphill battle.”
The top four teams will qualify for the 1A state tournament beginning October 7. McAdams made the tournament last year as runnerup in 6-1A, but was defeated by Salem 3-1 in the opening round.
Ethel was runnerup in 5-1A and defeated Piney Woods 3-0 in the opening round before a 3-0 loss to state runnerup Resurrection.
McAdams 2023 Volleyball Schedule
August 8 Kosciusko Away
August 15 Louisville Home
August 17 Holmes County Central Home
August 22 Holmes County Central Away
August 24 Kosciusko Home
August 29 MSD Away
August 31 Nanih Waiya* Home
September 7 Noxapater* Away
September 12 Ethel * Away
September 14 Velma Jackson* Away
September 19 Nanih Waiya* Away
September 26 Noxapater* Home
September 28 Ethel* Home
October 3 Velma Jackson* Home
October 5 Louisville Away
* – Region 6-1A
