It’s tough to be injured, especially as an athlete, however senior Alayna Vaughn has made the best of an unfortunate situation.

In early January of this year, Vaughn sustained a significant injury to her leg, tearing her ACL and various ligaments around it. Because of this, she was not able to participate in her senior season of volleyball.

Nonetheless, Vaughn showed her commitment and dedication to the team by becoming the team manager, and this proved to be a perfect fit.

Reserve coach Kaylee Prenosil works closely with Vaughn on the sidelines and notes her knowledgeability.

“She brings so much knowledge to the game and is able to give girls critical feedback,” Prenosil said. “Even though she is on the sidelines, she knows what it’s like to play.”

On Oct. 22, varsity volleyball played against Lincoln Northwest for senior night. The team decided that Vaughn, to recognize her own senior night, would sub in to serve a point for the Wolves for the first time since her injury.

Freshman Reese Wallraff describes how they came to this resolution.

“She deserved to serve and play in the game for senior night,” Wallraff said. “We made the decision with the coaches and as a team.”

Vaughn dedicates much of her time and energy to the school, despite the circumstances she has faced. She displays what it truly means to be part of the wolfpack and will continue to exude her positivity wherever she goes.

Good luck to the Wolves tonight as they face off against Norris at the state semi-finals tonight at 5:00 p.m.!