LEROY - Pine River finished its volleyball season with an above .500 record and among the reasons was the play of Emma Whitley.
As a junior, Whitley was a consistent leader for the Bucks in digs and kills. It was her third varsity season.
"This has been our best year as a team," Whitley, an outside hitter, said. "I watch the other team a lot so I know where to put the ball."
She's also been an effective passer and has had a consistent season.
A strong performance against Manton was among the highlights for the Bucks, Whitley indicated.
"We want to keep our energy up," Whitley said. "When we play with high energy, we're virtually unstoppable."
Whitley plays softball but no winter sport, although she performs during the winter months in Grand Rapids for a travel volleyball team.
The Bucks were 21-15-2. They won their district match over Evart in the semifinals but lost to Manton in the title match.
"I am so very proud of this team and what we have become not only as players but as people," Pine River coach Jana Dennis said.
