The 2024 volleyball season is underway for the Muskogee Roughers and after a recording setting 16-15 season last year, the team is regrouping for another run.

“We have just one returning starter from last year’s team, but I think we have the potential to be competitive in a tough Class 6A,” said head coach TeAna Tramel.

The source for that optimism centers around that returning starter, senior Raegan Essex. A four-year starter at outside hitter, Essex is the heart and soul of the team according to Tramel.

“The great thing about Raegan is her leadership, her work ethic and the ability to adapt to changes on the court,” said Tramel. “She is just as amazing off the court by excelling in the classroom and goes above and beyond for her community. She is a true role model for our younger players.”

Among those younger players that Raegan is setting the bar for are her two younger sisters Marli who is a sophomore on the varsity squad and London who is in middle school.

Another senior leader for the Roughers is libero Jaelle Baker or JBake as she’s known on the team.

“JBake is the personality of the team and does so much for us. She’s the first to arrive and last to leave, makes sure the junior high kids have rides and goes above and beyond. After a road trip, you’ll find her cleaning the bus or the gym if we’re at home and asking coaches what else needs to be done,” said Tramel.

On the defensive side, Tramel points to junior Ciara Edwards.

“You don’t see her value in the statistics necessarily, but she is a blocking machine and has gotten better in the middle offensively. She’s a consistent player who always has a smile on her face,” said Tramel.

Another player that has Tramel’s eye this year is freshman Ariel Rodriguez, the younger sister of MHS alum Alexis Rodriguez.

“A-rod is making a name for herself on the court for her ability to step into several positions and bring added depth to the team this year,” said Tramel.

Other members of the Roughers varsity squad are seniors Ciara Tremblay and Kensington Moore, juniors Kynnli Jones and Dionna Roberts and sophomore Kinsley Wilson.

If you have a chance over the last half of the season, get out to the volleyball building and watch the girls in action. They have home games Sept. 10 against Bixby, Sept. 24 against Sapulpa, Sept. 30 against Wagoner and October 10 against Sand Springs,