As the Highland Scottie Volleyball team kicked off practice on August 1, the players were also reminded that success extends far beyond the court. Under the leadership of Head Coach Andrea Keller, the team has been making community service a central part of their season, emphasizing the importance of life skills, teamwork and giving back.

This month, the Scotties assisted with Back-to-School Night at Kadens Kloset in Troy, Kansas, where local families were invited to shop for clothing and supplies. The athletes helped with shopping, checkout and organization, ensuring families were ready for the new school year.

The team also traveled to Kansas City to serve families at two Ronald McDonald Houses at Children’s Mercy Hospital. There, the players planned, cooked and served meals for parents and children navigating serious health challenges.

Closer to home, the Scotties prepared and served a noon meal at the Open Door Food Kitchen in St. Joseph, Missouri. Open 365 days a year, the kitchen provides meals for families and individuals in need.

For Coach Keller, these experiences are as important as wins and losses. “It’s about teaching life skills and helping our players understand the value of service,” she said. “There’s a sense of gratitude that comes from helping others, and that’s something we want our athletes to carry with them long after volleyball.”

By balancing hard work on the court with compassion in the community, the Scottie Volleyball team is building more than athletes—they’re building leaders.