Every Panther knows—or will come to know—that the Loudon Redskins are our rivals. Each year we go head to head in the ‘Battle of the Bridge’ where we strive to win each game in a series of sports competition (football, golf, soccer, etc). Even though it may be a small victory, Lenoir City’s JV volleyball team won against Loudon’s JV this year. Co-captain of our JV volleyball team, Karlee Cook (10), sees this as a big win for LC. 

“Honestly, after last year’s season, I was stoked because we haven’t been able to beat them before, especially in their own home. I consider this to be a big win for the team,” Cook said. 

Cook takes her leadership position wholeheartedly, as she leads her team on and off the court. 

“Sometimes it can be stressful being a leader [all while] trying to be there for everyone [at the same time]. But, it is insanely rewarding for us and for me specifically to know that my voice is being heard,” Cook said. 

Cook enjoys being a part of the team and playing with her teammates. She feels as though the JV volleyball team has bonded and really came together over the course of the season. 

“The fact that we’re like one big family is awesome. I know I can go to anyone if I need help or advice, and I trust my teammates,” Cook said. 

Although we might’ve not won the Battle of the Bridge in its entirety, the small victories we’ve earned are still victories nonetheless.