COLONY — After leading Crest High School’s volleyball team to one of its most successful seasons ever, Kayla Hermreck is ready to take the next step.
Hermreck, a four-time all-Three Rivers League performer, has signed a letter of intent to play next season at Butler County Community College.
“For me, it was really the coaches,” that led to her decision, Hermreck said. “It felt more like I was coming into a family than like coming into a business or a job.”
Hermreck, who earned unanimous first-team honors for the second straight season this year, led Crest to a 28-8 record, as the Lady Lancers advanced to the Class 1A Substate Championship.
The team’s progression through her four years was gratifying to watch, Hermreck said.
“It was fun,” she said. “It was definitely a team atmosphere. Everyone was willing to work hard. Everyone did it for each other. There wasn’t any one person who was selfish. We were willling to do anything for each other, which was awesome.”
Hermreck racked up 360 kills — 10 per match — with a whopping percentage rate of 41%. She also had 40 service aces, 21 solo blocks, 122 digs and 179 assists. She served at an 83% clip as well.
Hermreck, whose success on the court parallels her exemplary academic record, plans to study pre-physical therapy at Butler.
“I didn’t know what I was going to major in until I committed,” said Herrmeck, who sports a 4.0 grade-point average. “I looked at what they had to offer, and I knew I wanted to do something in the medical field. Pre-physical therapy is a good fit.”
FOR THE PAST six years, Hermreck also played club volleyball, but is giving it a rest this year in order to dabble in coaching. She’s coaching a team of 15-year-old all-stars.
Her mother, Abigail, will serve as her assistant.
It marks a bit of turnabout. Abigail was Kayla’s coach through high school.
Additionally, Kayla’s father, Travis, has been a long-time basketball coach.
“This is just dabbing my foot into it,” Hermreck said. “It’ll be fun getting that experience. Definitely helped, getting to watch them and watch their coaching styles. I definitely learned a lot. It’s been to my advantage.”
On top of her league honors, Hermreck earned honorable mention to the all-state volleyball team as a sophomore. Last year, she was named to the all-state second team.
All-state recipients have not yet been announced for this season.
