COWETA TIGERS

Coach: JANETTE VELE

17-16

OUTLOOK

First-year Coweta Tigers head coach Janette Vele is eager to steer Coweta to a successful 2024 campaign. “This is my first season with this group. We are growing and improving every day,” Vele said. “They are a fun group, and they want to compete this season. They have goals and every day we are getting a step closer to achieving those goals. We are excited to get the season started.” Last year, the Tigers pulled off major wins against No. 9 Lawton MacArthur (twice), No. 11 Edison, 4A No. 7 Verdigris and 4A No. 9 Catoosa and look to build off that momentum. Baylee Belt (Sr.) is one of the most anticipated returning players in the area. “She’s [Belt] a senior and a leader for our team,” Vele said. “She’s the type of player every coach wants on their team. Very dependable and dedicated to the game itself. She inspires others around her and is a great teammate.” Olivia Brand (Sr.) can do a little bit of everything. She will see time at OH, DS and Libero. “Olivia is our all-around player. She can do it all,” Vele said. “She is consistent in both the defensive and offensive ends. She is one of our strong servers. She will be a big factor for us this season.” Alyssa Knapper (Sr.) looks to make a statement this year. “Lyssa is our powerful lefty. She can be an option on the outside and right-side pin,” Vele said. “She is quiet, but she can be a ball of fire when she is fired up. We are excited to see her in action this season.” Ellie Foster (So.) serves as an engine in the locker room. “Ellie is always encouraging and works hard to improve her skills on and off the court,” Vele said. “She’s a natural leader and always puts her teammates first.”