The 2019 season brought forth the creation of the first-ever Kosciusko girls volleyball season. The news not only grabbed the attention of the Whippets’ athletic community, but it also energized a city eager to welcome a new athletic program.
The team practiced all summer, learning the ins-and-outs of the new sport. Between Kosciusko’s varsity and junior varsity squads, more than 30 players landed on both teams. They were coached by former Kosciusko Whippet Lauren Peresich.
The team opened its inaugural season on August 15 against Noxapater, and by season’s end, it had played 14 games.
The Lady Whippets dropped their first three games but nabbed the program’s first win on Sept. 3 after defeating Region 4-4A opponent Louisville, 3-2. The victory kick-started a five-game win streak that included victories against Winston Academy, Yazoo City, Columbus and another win against Louisville.
Kosciusko defeated Noxapater, 3-1, in the regular-season finale, and reached MHSAA Class 4A playoffs in the program’s first year of existence.
Kosciusko drew 13-win Greenwood in the Class 4A playoff opener and ultimately fell, 3-0, on the road. But the Lady Whippets achieved and 8-6 overall record and went 4-2 in Region 4-4A matches.
“It was really awesome,” Peresich said after the playoff loss. “Four months ago, they didn’t even know how to play. Now, they know the game, and they’re pretty good at it. They have no reason to be upset. They did really well and had a good season.”
