Dewey High School senior Kaylee Anton-Cole understands the importance of communication, confidence and connection on the volleyball court. In her third season starting on the varsity squad, Anton-Cole is making a push to hit the 1,000 career assists mark.
As the Bulldogs’ setter, Anton-Cole serves as a central voice in the offense, helping organize plays while creating opportunities for her teammates. She takes particular pride in the energy her team builds during competitive points.
“I am the setter. I enjoy most when we get a good play or rally, and we come together cheering getting loud and laughing as a team,” Anton-Cole said.
Entering her senior season, Anton-Cole is focused on helping the team pursue the standards they have established as a group. Instead of looking only at individual accomplishments, she is motivated by the process of working together toward the team’s biggest objectives.
“I am excited about working to achieve each one of our big goals that we have set for ourselves and our team,” Anton-Cole said.
Anton-Cole sees leadership as a major strength in her game, particularly because the setter’s position requires awareness of the entire court and the ability to keep teammates organized. She also recognizes that leadership is an area where players must continue growing.
“I think the strength of my game is my leadership on the court. Being the setter you have to be the voice and know how to lead the court. That is also One thing I am working on to improve is being the best leader I can be,” Anton-Cole said.
Anton-Cole carries an important lesson from last season into her final year: resilience matters after mistakes.
“A lesson I learned last season is that one mistake does not define you as a player. I also learned that if you want to succeed bad enough you will get that win,” Anton-Cole said.
After graduation, Anton-Cole plans to pursue health science before attending medical school with the goal of becoming a pediatrician. Her mother remains a key source of support.
“My mom inspires me because no matter how good or bad I’m doing she is still one of my biggest cheerleaders and never lets me give up on myself,” Anton-Cole said.
