November was a big month for Charlee Solomon. On November 9th, she played a key role in helping the varsity volleyball team win yet another volleyball state championship, sweeping Elkhorn South in three sets at the finals, (25-23, 25-20, 25-18). Solomon specifically contributed with 10 kills, nine digs, and 19 assists with a .250 hitting percentage. The following week on November 13th, Solomon signed with Jacksonville State to continue her academic and volleyball career in Florida next year.
1. How does this year’s victory at state compare with the other’s you’ve experienced?
“I think this one was a lot more special because, coming out of a loss last year, it was kind of like a redemption. We were just kind of trying to fulfill last year’s team as well so I think being able to win … gave us a sense of validation from last year’s loss [in the first round against the PLHS Monarchs].”
2. What do you think has been the key to the program’s consistent success, winning state four times in six years?
“I think the culture is just really great here. I think that we have a really great support system, and just the way that the players have learned to adapt to our ways. I think that goes to show just how great our coaches are and the culture is.”
3. What are your goals for the future, for college and volleyball?
“Well, I’m going to play at Jacksonville State [a Division 1 school in Florida], so I’m just hoping to become the best person and player I can be and just go accomplish some great things there.”
4. What does it mean to end your high school career as a multi-State Champion?
“Very special. I’m glad that that’s how we ended up winning, but I think it’s also more special for the girls who don’t get to play volleyball in college. I think that I’m just so happy that they got to win a state championship and close out their volleyball careers in that way.”
5. Over your high school career, what has been the biggest challenge you faced on the court and how did you overcome?
“I would say just learning to embrace the pressure. I think when I was younger, I would get timid, and I think over the course of my years I learned to really like that pressure and wanting to be like that person who gets the kill when we need it the most. I learned to just embrace that.”
