Central Florida high schools aren’t back in classes quite yet. But most of their fall athletes have all reported to practice. For Oviedo senior volleyball player Lilly Gunter she is looking to keep the success coming for the Lions her final year. Our Despina Barton has more with Gunter in this week’s Athlete of the Week:
Lilly Gunter started playing volleyball in the third grade.
“I used to be an outside hitter until 14’s and then I switched because I wasn’t that tall,” Gunter explained.
Now she is the starting libero for Oviedo high school and really good at her job.
“She takes care of first ball contact and everything that involves a first ball contact or serve,” Oviedo Head Coach Jen Darty said. “Her passing defense is absolutely incredible.”
Gunter has started all four years with the Lions and holds multiple school records for digs.
“I love being a libero because I feel like I get to control the whole back court and just go after every single ball,” Gunter added.
It’s a natural role for the 5’6 Mississippi State commit as she helped guide Oviedo to the 9A State Volleyball Championship last season.
“It was the best feeling in the world just winning that title with my best friends and I think that coming into this season, like I said, it’s going to be different but I am ready to work hard,” Gunter said.
But it’s a new year and a new team as four key players graduated off that state championship team from a year ago. Which means Gunter will have to step into a new role and help fill those gaps here final year here in a Lions jersey.
“I’m going to be a leader this year,” Gunter declared. “I’ve tried in the last couple of years but this year I am definitely taking that role and just keep everyone accountable for their jobs and just work together.”
And that mantra was already put into action on Thursday when the team gathered for its first official practice.
“Lilly is a super special kid,” Darty added. “She is a kid who is going to get after it all the time. She loves competing we are pretty similar in that way — always going to drive and she’s going to make everyone around her better.”
Gunter and her team will embark on its journey to defend that 2018 state title starting August 20th against Lake Howell.