Sitting in the locker room, sweat still dripping from a long game, the varsity volleyball team journals about what just happened. A new mental enhancement program started by the coaching staff, and backed by the district, has the girls’ journal their thoughts and future goals after every game.

Varsity defeated Denton Ryan and Little Elm in the pre-season and took bronze in the Frisco tournament, proving the program’s success.

Former five-year varsity assistant Ramona Wible began these changes as new head coach.

“The journals help us focus on the next game, not the last one,” Wible said.

Before coaching, Wible played volleyball in high school and for a year in college.

“I had a volleyball scholarship, but the coach and I had a falling out,” Wible said. “Being head coach has always been on the radar, kind of a dream.”

Wible’s coaching promotion came when  varsity head coach Jennifer Bishop faced UIL sanctions for violations determined last week.

“McKinney High School coach Jennifer Bishop was issued a public reprimand,” UIL media representative Chris Schmidt said. “She was placed on probation for one year for violation of sections 1.209 (f), off season participation in non-school team sports, and 1.209 (g), coaching restrictions.”

Despite the early season obstacles, Wible looks forward to a victorious year for the Lionettes.

“I came to McKinney High for bigger and better things,” Wible said. “We do the best we can, with what we have, where we are. Start strong, end strong. Every year we come out strong and lose it. We want to keep it this season.”

by Hailey Kilgo