As the Franklin High School (FHS) varsity girls’ volleyball team takes the court this season, fans can expect to see more than a group of athletes chasing wins; they will see a program built on passion, confidence, and one coach’s belief that overall success extends far beyond a scoreboard.
Head Coach Bekah Brooks has been a part of FHS volleyball programs since 2006, coaching everything from the Macon Middle School team, to junior varsity, to varsity. Brooks even branched out two years ago to start the first men’s volleyball team at FHS.
Taking over the FHS varsity program in 2018, Brooks has a coaching philosophy that extends beyond the volleyball court. She aims to instill confidence in all of her players, showing them that their worth goes beyond sports.
“My coaching style is energetic and passionate,” she explained. “I try to go beyond just skills, inspiring growth in each young adult and reminding them they are more than defined by their sport.”
Displaying a wide array of high kicks and jumps during intense game situations, Brooks’s actions motivate the team to feed off her energy. The girls are quick to always cheer for each other and celebrate small victories.
“I want the girls to believe they are more than just a volleyball player, more than a record or a stat,” she said. “If they can create lifelong friendships, awesome memories, and grow as people, that’s the real win.”
Still, Brooks holds her team to a high standard and hopes to see them finish in the top two of the conference and push deeper into the playoffs than in past years. “Be competitive, be a good teammate, be willing to lead, have fun,” she emphasized as her team goals. “Win the games you’re supposed to win, snag a few you’re not supposed to, and make a solid playoff run.”
Some coaches spend time highlighting star players, but Brooks insists each of her players contribute equally to the team morale and culture. “This whole team is amazing. Every girl brings something different and unique. Some may shine more at times, but it takes all of us to make it work.”
The team spends countless hours bonding through summer workouts, community service projects, journaling, and fun team-bonding days in order to establish trust in their teammates.
The team has already shown resilience with an overall 13-1 record (at press time) so far this season, demonstrating a promising start to what is sure to be a strong season. The team has had to adjust to new lineups and learn to play their individual roles accordingly, without complaints. The motto this year is “Iron Sharpens Iron.”
“Small wins with individual athletes are my favorite part of coaching, which most people don’t get to see,” said Brooks. “Watching them grow from the court to the weight room to the classroom, getting to see the whole athlete, celebrating their personal wins is incredible. Winning means making good grades, improving your school, joining clubs, making your teammates better, being a good friend, and knowing you are a child of God and have a purpose in this life. That is the most important.”
Upcoming are two home games: Sept. 15, against Robbinsville, and Sept. 16 against East Henderson. 5A State Playoffs begin Oct. 18.