The volleyball team got off to a good start this year.

“We opened the season on the road, so winning the first home game really boosted the girls’ confidence,” coach Robbie Veazey said.

During the offseason, “We played in summer leagues all summer,” Veazey said. “We did about seven to eight games twice a week. We got to see our weaknesses and determine their lineup for the season.”

“All summer, we’ve worked hours in the gym to better ourselves,” middle hitter Zakhia “Z” Taylor said.

Taylor, who played in the 2018-2019 Mississippi Association of Coaches All-Star Volleyball game in July, is among the seniors Veazey is relying on this year.

“We have a very strong senior class this year,” she said. “Z and Anna (Jernigan) are very strong players. Z really sets the tone of the front row for us. Anna and Z have been leading us senior wise.”

All of her players are “all in,” Veazey said, meaning they are focusing more on the team than themselves in their attempt to accomplish a common goal of “making playoffs and winning the state title. They are reaching high and I don’t think much else is on their minds.”

Taylor said she’s been chasing a state title since her freshman year.

“Not only is the goal achievable, we have rival schools rooting for us to make it to state,” she said. “Making a playoff run and winning state would be the perfect ending to my senior year.”

Junior Brinley Steed, a setter for the team, said they have worked hard in every aspect this year.

“We work together and help each other with everything,” she said. “Coach Veazey has pushed us until we couldn’t be pushed anymore. I am very excited to see what the rest of the season brings and hopefully we will bring home a state title.”

In the meantime, Veazey said there’s nothing quite like watching volleyball. Her players showcased their talents for the student body Sept. 3 during an in-school volleyball game against Olive Branch High School.

“If you haven’t seen the game you’re missing out on a good experience,” she said.

The Mustangs are now 3-0 in district play.