By Ken Hamwey

Staff Sports Writer

When Kristen Geuss was asked about her 11 consecutive state-tourney berths in volleyball, she responded by saying: “I hope No. 12 is in our future.”

That shouldn’t be too difficult for King Philip’s varsity coach, who’s now in her 12th year at the Warriors’ helm. Her 14-player roster, which has nine seniors, one junior and four sophomores, has a plethora of strengths.

“We’ve got experience, depth (a next-person-up mentality), a high volleyball IQ, and players who have speed and quickness,’’ she noted. “We’re also strong on technique and skills. And, I like our scrappy nature. We’re also fundamentally sound, coachable and promote team chemistry on and off the court.’’

Geuss lost eight seniors from last year’s team that finished 13-8 after a first-round playoff loss to Chelmsford. But, seven experienced competitors have returned and she labels her four sophomores as “high potential players who are willing to work hard for success.’’

A native of Saugerties, N.Y., Guess has set three goals for this season and it’s no surprise that a tourney repeat heads her list. 

“We want to qualify for the playoffs and strive for a deep run,’’ she said. “We also want to improve daily in practice and matches and compete for the Kelly-Rex Division title in the Hockomock League.’’ 

At Local Town Pages deadline, the Warriors had a 2-3 record.

A coach who knows the value of defense, Geuss, rates her squad’s offense and defense as “balanced’’ and “equal in skills and performance.’’

KP’s captains are all seniors — Cece Mullen (setter), Shayne Dugan (outside hitter) and Caleigh Shore (defensive specialist/libero) — who personify quality leadership. “They’re a mix of leading by example, and being vocal, supportive and communicative,’’ said Geuss, who played volleyball in high school and at State College of New York at Cortland.

“Cece is a high energy player who’s got a high volleyball IQ, speed and quickness,’’ Geuss said. “The quarterback of our offense, she’s a very effective setter. Shayne is an aggressive attacker, a top-notch server and a very good blocker. Caleigh is a great leader in the back row. She’s consistent on serve-receive and has excellent defensive instincts.’’

Senior Cece Kilroy is an experienced right-side hitter who’s in her third varsity campaign. “Cece has a powerful swing and a high volleyball IQ,’’ Geuss offered. “She’s also talented and well-skilled.’’

Geuss likes Mya McCormick’s instinctive style as a defensive specialist/libero. “Mya does a great job anchoring the back row and she has a highly effective serve,’’ she said.

Seniors Alli Cleasby (right-side hitter) and Kelsey Lynch (middle hitter) rely on a strong work ethic. “They work hard and are ready to contribute when called on,’’ Geuss said.

Two other seniors — setter Leah Hayes and hitter Greta Mischley — are talented and their coach likes their approach. “Both are talented and consistent,’’ Geuss said. “And, they compete intensely.’’

Junior Amie O’Neil plays middle hitter but competed in only three matches last year as a sophomore. A shoulder injury limited her availability. “Amie is a very dominant middle hitter,’’ Geuss said. “She can jump and is an intense blocker.’’

Sophomore Molly Sweeney also is a middle hitter who played on the varsity as a freshman. “Molly finds the gaps in our opponents defenses and can finish the point,’’ Geuss said. “She’s an effective hitter.’’

Three other capable sophomores are setter Charlotte Bailey, defensive specialist Mia Keays, and hitter Nora O’Brien.

“Charlotte is in her first year of varsity play,’’ Geuss said. “She’s a hard-worker, has a high volleyball IQ and is talented. Mia is quick and scrappy and has good court vision. Nora can play both outside hitter or on the right side. She’s versatile, coachable and willing to learn. She’s also an aggressive player who’s got a good swing.’’

KP’s sub-varsity coaches include Cam Corey (jayvees) and Lily Carlow and Emily Diiulis are leading the freshmen. Geuss, who works as a para-professional at the Jackson School in Plainville, likes the trio’s approach, saying: “The staff is united and we’re all on the same page — we want the best for the players.’’ 

Relying on an athletic philosophy that focuses on reaching one’s potential and enjoying competition, Geuss believes if those two aspects are in play, then winning will be the by-product.

She also is aware that her players can learn valuable life lessons while they compete. “Some examples are how to work as a team, how to set goals, how to be leaders and how to overcome adversity and become resilient,’’ Geuss emphasized. “I also want our players to set good examples, be accountable, accept responsibility, and be quality people on and off the court.’’ 

KP isn’t far removed from its best season during Geuss’ tenure. In 2022, the Warriors completed their regular season with an 18-2 record, advanced to the state final where they lost to Westboro and ended that campaign with a 22-3 record.

Some of those former players could be returning to KP on Saturday, Oct. 18, at 5 p.m. for an alumni game. “I’ve coached most of the alumni,’’ Geuss said. “It’ll be great to see them all come together to compete at KP again.’’

That time will be nostalgic and it’ll be trip down memory lane.  

As for KP’s current contingent, Kristen Geuss isn’t sure where or how her squad will finish this season but it seems very likely that the Warriors will be in the playoffs for the 12th straight year.