Tim Hayes
If it seems like Mackenzie Wright is everywhere on the volleyball court for the Ridgeview High School Wolfpack, it's because she is.
Soaring high at the net to collect a kill? Yep, she does that.
Leaping high to block an opponent's hit? You bet.
Unleashing a well-placed serve for a point? She can do that too.
Giving an all-out effort in diving for a dig? All the time.
Assisting another hitter on a spike? That happens on occasion.
Front row.
Back row.
Attacking.
Defending.
Yes to all.
"She's first or second on the team in just about every stat," said Ridgeview coach Holly Hyden Fleming. "She is an amazing athlete who can literally do anything on the volleyball court."
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Wright's versatility has been a key for Ridgeview (31-2), which plays the Fort Defiance Indians (26-2) on Saturday at 2:15 p.m. in the VHSL Class 2 state title match at the Salem Civic Center.
Wright relishes her role as a jack of all trades.
"As an all-around player, I do like being an outside hitter," Wright said. "As I have struggled trying to find my timing and connection with [setter] Makinley [Owens], we have come a long way and finally have found that connection.
"I also like being a defensive specialist. Defense is my thing. Whether it's diving for hard hit balls or serve receiving, I love everything about that."
Wright plays with emotion, getting pumped up after a positive play.
"Kenzie is a player that can change the game," said teammate Leah Sutherland. "The fire she brings and her competitiveness to win these hard games is what stands out to me the most. She always is an amazing leader and someone I can always turn to."
Wright has dealt with a torn bicep and a knee ailment this season, but you wouldn't know it by watching her. All-out effort, all the time.
There are many things I try to do for my team," Wright said. "But one is bringing the energy, uplifting my teammates, and setting the tone for each game. I think about reading the court to know what to do to score and having that competitive edge to know that no ball is going to drop and no one's going to beat me."
Wright hopes to have the right stuff once again on Saturday with the state title on the line.
"I can tell you this, postseason is way different than regular season," Wright said. "The postseason has been tough and somewhat kind of pressure on us to exceed those expectations, but expectations don't matter. It's all within and what we can do. This postseason ride has been spectacular. ... It's been a fun ride with these girls. We have a state championship to win."
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