Volleyball team holds banquet
BY JASON THOMPSON Gulf Breeze News jason@gulfbreezenews.com

Jason Thompson/Gulf Breeze Varsity volleyball award winners From left: Deannette Zuniga (most digs), Jasmine Crowell (Most Improved), Celia Eddy (Most and Blocks, Academic Award) and Tristan Powers (Most Assists, Team Most Valuable Player).

The Gulf Breeze Lady Dolphin volleyball program celebrated another strong season with their annual awards banquet Nov. 14 at First Baptist Church.

After the invocation by varsity player Brittany Wheeler, players, coaches, family and friends enjoyed what's becoming a GBHS sports tradition - a catered meal pasta and chicken marsala courtesy of Carrabba's.

First up was ninth grade coach Jarrod Denmon, whose freshman went unbeaten against fellow freshman competition this season (16-0).

"They're old enough to realize, that's not easy to do," Denmon said.

Sallie Papajohn was awarded the team's Academic Award winner, as well as the team Most Valuable Player.

Next up was David McGreal and the junior varsity squad. His team went 15-4 this season.

"It was without a doubt, a great season all around," McGreal said.

Jason Thompson/Gulf Breeze News Varsity volleyball award winners From left: Kelly Hayes (JV Most Valuable Player) and Sallie Papajohn (Ninth grade team Academic, Most Vaulable Player).

Kelly Hayes was the team's MVP, while Connor Tate was the Academic Award winner. Dabney Abbott and Kylie Conner were the team's Most Improved.

Varsity coach Waynn Sellers was up next, introducing his squad. A short-handed Gulf Breeze squad finished the season 12-7 and was the 'odd team out' as far as the postseason goes. Navarre and Washington represented District 1- 4A in the playoffs.

Deannette Zuniga led the team (and the area) in digs, while Tristan Powers was the team leader (and third in the area) in assists. She was also named the team's MVP, as well as being recognized for the team's highest serving percentage.

Celia Eddy was the team's Academic Award winner, as well as leading the team in kills and blocks. Jasmine Crowell was named the Most Improved.

The evening was concluded with a 25-minute video highlighting the season. The video was put together by Mark Lehmann.

Jason Thompson/Gulf Breeze News Varsity coach Waynn Sellers speaks at the GBHS volleyball banquet Nov. 14 at First Baptist Church. Jason Thompson/Gulf Breeze News And then there was one Ali Venezia waits for her name to be called at the GBHS volleyball banquet Nov. 14 at First Baptist Church. Venezia was the team's only senior.