Reese Leone has quietly become one of the steadiest presences on the back row for Shawnee High School’s Lady Wolves volleyball team. A junior defensive specialist, Leone has built her game around consistency, communication and an unwavering commitment to her teammates.
That team-first mentality was tested last season, when the Lady Wolves faced adversity that reshaped how they approached the game. Leone said the experience taught her and her teammates the value of trust. “One of the biggest lessons we learned last season was that we have to trust each other and stay together, especially when things don’t go our way. Volleyball is a team sport, and every person has a role that matters. Last season taught us to communicate, stay positive, and never give up on each other. We’re taking that lesson into this season and using it to become stronger, more connected, and better as a team,” Leone said.
As a defensive specialist, Leone has honed a specific skill set that keeps Shawnee competitive in long rallies. She credits her focus and reliability under pressure as her greatest asset on the court. “One of my biggest strengths as a defensive specialist is my ability to stay focused and make plays when my team needs me. I work hard to keep the ball alive, communicate with my teammates, and stay consistent on defense,” Leone said. She added that she is working to sharpen one part of her game even further. “One area I’m continuing to improve is being more confident and aggressive with my communication and decision making on the court,” Leone said.
Off the court, Leone credits her mother as her biggest source of inspiration. “My mom inspires me because she shows me what it means to be strong, caring, and hardworking. She always encourages me to keep going, even when things get difficult, and she reminds me to believe in myself,” Leone said.
Leone also pointed to a longtime teammate, Molly, as a constant source of support throughout her high school career. “Molly is someone who has been there for all three years of school with me and had been through it all right by my side. She always has my back, encourages me when I need it most, and reminds me to keep going when things get hard. I’m so grateful to have a teammate who supports me both on and off the court. She’s not just a teammate, but someone I know I can always count on,” Leone said.
Beyond volleyball, Leone stays engaged in her school community through the National Honor Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, organizations she said have shaped her growth as a leader.
