With a ton of experience returning to the court for the Lady Buffs, expectations are growing and the team is excited to represent this season. 

Head coach Laurie Smith recognizes the opportunity in front of the team. 

“This team is loaded with experience with eight seniors and three juniors – most of whom saw significant playing time at the varsity level last year. They consistently win more games each year than the year before, and we are looking forward to taking McAlester volleyball to the next level this year,” said coach Smith. 

Dayana Wright is a versatile player coach Smith will lean on this season at multiple positions. Her ability to lead on and off the court is crucial for the teams overall success. 

“DayDay is an all-around great player and person. She is a six-rotation player and a leader on and off the court. She works hard day in and day out and never takes a day off. She is fiercely competitive and holds herself to high standards. When the game is on the line, she’s the person you want to be involved in the game. She is supportive of her teammates and really gets to know the younger girls and helps them feel like an important part of the program,” said coach Smith. 

Cozy Melton is another great player who leads by example. 

“Cozy is a great player and a fantastic student. She has a great wealth of volleyball knowledge and makes plays that others cannot. She is a quiet player but leads even with her quiet personality. She gives 110 percent all the time and is harder on herself than anyone else. She is always consistent with her high-quality play and gets everyone pumped up just with her hustle and hard work. Although just a junior she has plenty of varsity experience, and I can always count on her on and off the court,” said coach Smith. 

Other players to watch this season include Jaelyn Mascoto, Mallori Marchant, Abigail Estrada, and Gracey Glenn.