The NCOE Lady Cardinals are making history this season with outstanding performances from seniors Aubrey Knight and Jaydee Melton. Knight recently broke the school record for career digs with an impressive 586 while Melton celebrated her 2,000th career assist during the team’s win over Hardin County. Both milestones highlight not only their individual talent but also the teamwork, determination, and leadership that defines this year's squad.

For senior, Aubrey Knight, breaking the school record for digs wasn’t something she was counting during the game; the moment hit her only afterward. “I didn’t even realize it at first,” Aubrey said. “I was just focused on playing my best and helping my team win. When I found out afterward, it really hit me how big of an accomplishment it was.” Aubrey’s determination and consistency have defined her high school career, but she credits her success to the people around her. “My teammates have helped me so much because every time I get a dig, it’s only possible with their help,” she said. “They’re always communicating, backing me up, and trusting me.” Looking back, one game stands out as a turning point in her journey. “The game that probably shaped me the most was last year’s super-sectional game against the team that became state champions,” Aubrey said. “After that loss, I was ready to put in the work during club season and then in the summer for school. I’ve gotten better since last year, and I’m sure my teammates would say the same because we’ve all worked so hard. My coaches have also pushed me to be the best version of myself.” When asked what advice she’d give to younger players following in her footsteps, Aubrey’s response was simple but heartfelt: “Really soak up every moment—it goes by so fast. Appreciate your teammates, your coaches, and the memories you make along the way.” Even with her name now etched into NCOE history, Aubrey isn’t done yet. “My goal for the rest of the season is to get as many digs as I can and hopefully we go as far as possible,” she said. “This is my last year, and I want to make every game count with this special group of teammates and coaches.” 

For setter Jaydee Melton, hitting the 2,000 assists milestone is the result of years of dedication and growth. “This milestone means a lot to me personally because I have worked so hard to become the player I am today,” Jaydee said. “This is a big accomplishment for me and my progress as a setter.” She credits her teammates for helping make the achievement possible. “My teammates played a huge role in this,” she said. “They give me good passes, which lead to better sets that equal kills. Any of my teammates can put the ball down which helps me out a lot.” Jaydee says Mrs. Healy has been one of her biggest influences on and off the court. “Mrs. Healy has helped me develop so much as a setter,” Jaydee said. “She’s taught me a lot at Wild Bunch, and I know I wouldn’t be half the setter I am today without her guidance. She’s taught me how to get out of my comfort zone and push myself, which has helped me grow a lot.” As she reflects on her senior season, Jaydee takes pride in how her team’s offense has evolved. “I am most proud of the speed of the offense I’m running this season,” she said. “I’ve worked hard to set faster, and it’s paying off greatly for my team. By running a fast offense, I can help my hitters by getting them in better situations.” Looking ahead, she’s determined to keep improving as both a player and a leader. “Going forward, I’m setting a goal to continue to get a lot better in the off season before I go play in college,” she said. “I want to reach a higher level so I can play on my college team. As a team, our goal is to keep our season going as long as it possibly can.” 

Coach Melton says she couldn't be prouder of what her players have achieved this season. “I’m very proud of both Jaydee and the entire team, but they wouldn’t be where they are without each other,” Melton said. “Every player plays a role in those big accomplishments, and I’m proud that they’ve broken records together as a team.” She said the bond between the players has strengthened over the years, especially among the seniors who have grown into natural leaders. “These seniors have been playing varsity since their freshman or sophomore year,” she said. “They’ve really stepped up to take the underclassmen under their wing. It’s been a fun, funny, and close-knit group to coach.” Melton highlighted the team’s Edwards County Tournament win as a defining moment of their season.” They played five tough teams and took charge,” she said. “That tournament showed just how strong and determined they are.” As both a coach and a parent, balancing roles can be challenging but also rewarding. “It’s hard sometimes! I try to stay in coach mode, but I’ll admit I probably yell at Jaydee a little more when she makes mistakes,” she said jokingly. “She understands it, though. I feel very blessed to coach such good teams. It's been incredibly rewarding.” 

The NCOE cardinal lady will be heading to regionals, ready to carry their momentum for postseason. The team has proven that hard work pays and heart goes hand in hand. Whether it’s Aubrey’s defense, Jaydee’s precision, or Coach Melton's leadership, this season stands as a statement to the team’s grit and unity and a legacy that will inspire future Cardinals for years to come.