During the 2023 volleyball season, juniors Samantha Nelson and Katelynn Vest entered the “1,000 Club” for their respective positions. Nelson, the varsity libero, acquired 1,000 career digs and Vest, the varsity setter, acquired 1,000 career assists.
“We knew both milestones were coming, so we kept a very close eye on stats so we would know exactly when it happened. We wanted to make sure we could announce it and let all of their teammates enjoy the moment with them,” volleyball coach Bill Rineker said. “Both would tell you they don’t reach those records without their teammates, so I knew they would want to celebrate those moments with all of them.”
Nelson started play in the third grade at St. James. She has been on the starting six since her freshman year here at CHHS and this was her second season at libero. One of her favorite memories from her first three years is the team advancing to the final four in the state championship her freshman year.
Vest has been playing since the 5th grade, her start at Lincoln Trail Elementary. This was just her first season as the varsity setter. Vest’s fondest volleyball memories consist of game day bus rides and “E-town beatdowns” (counting a grand total of five from this season).
Both of the Lady Bruins were named as captains this season and undoubtedly played pivotal roles in the successes of the team.
“I would say Sam is the more vocal leader. She is not afraid to say the tough things that need to be said sometimes, but she is also a big cheerleader for the team with her infectious energy,” Rineker said. “Kati is a more quiet leader, but she definitely leads by example with her great work ethic and positivity with teammates. She brings a ton of energy too.”
Nelson and Vest both previously played for Rineker’s off-season club team, CKVC, but recently chose to migrate to SKEVA Elite based out of Bowling Green this Spring.
Nelson credits Rineker as one of her biggest motivators to help her accomplish goals like this one.
“He’s always pushing me to be a better player, teammate, and leader,” Nelson said.
Next season, Nelson is aiming for 2,000 career digs and another state tournament appearance.
As for Vest, she looks after her older sisters, Lindsey and Lauren, who are both CHHS volleyball alumni.
“Through watching and playing with them, they have shaped me into the player I am today,” Vest said. “I would not be where I am today without their guidance and motivation.”
Vest hopes to break the school record for career assists and assists in one season, and like Nelson, advance as far as possible in state.
“The goal for our program is always the same: win regions and go to state, but for Sam and Kati individually I would say for them to just enjoy every single moment of their senior year,” Rineker said.
Both girls can say this season was special for plenty of reasons in addition to their individual accomplishments. Their team chemistry was like no other, all of them working day in and day out with similar goals in mind.
The Central Times congratulates these extraordinary young ladies and wishes them well in any future endeavors.
“My hope is that they leave Central feeling like they got the most out of their experiences, that they grew as people and not just volleyball players, that they made great friends that they will cherish for life, and that they know how much I appreciate everything they did for me and for this program,” Rinker said. “I’m blessed beyond belief to be able to coach players like Sam and Kati, and not a day goes by that I don’t thank the man above for it.”
