The hard working volleyballers of Innovation Academy in Springfield are blasting their way to victory in their inaugural season as a team with a 4-0 record.

Innovation Academy, the only Robertson County magnet school, is STEAM designated, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. In years prior, the middle school volleyball team competed in partnership with Springfield Middle School, but this year they take the court on their own as the Innovation Academy Sentinels.

Coach Lindsey Rose attributes their success to the culture they have created as a team by following three principles: effort, team-ness, and attitude. 

“Our effort is the same no matter what the score is,” said Lindsey. “These girls are really great at encouraging each other, keeping the energy up and showing good sportsmanship.” 

Lindsey says that the team values were easily established because of the atmosphere of the school—which she describes as welcoming and joyful— coming from the leadership and taking root within the student body. 

“We want to win, but we won’t win at all costs,” said Lindsey. 

Varsity Team: Grayson Powell, Claire Rose, Maricruz Sanchez, Keira Barnes, Brileigh Poss, Farah Dickerson, Lyric Rauch, Oakley Carneal, Maggie Reynolds, Sienna Wood.

Junior Varsity Team: Caislyn Brown, Taylynn Babbs, Trinity Chambers, Alyssa Barnes, Lacey Wilks, Kinsley Holleman, Keiara Mack, Kaydence Waters.

Team managers: Alex King, Hannah Rose

Assistant Coaches: Amy Jones, Morgan King

“I have high hopes for this team,” said Lindsey. “I hold them to high standards, but I believe they can meet them.” 

Innovation Academy has 501 students currently enrolled for grades 6-11 and is the only designated STEAM school in Robertson County. Prior to this school year, Innovation Academy operated as a magnet program within Springfield Middle School. The 2023 school year marked the beginning of Innovation Academy as an independent magnet school.  They have an application and qualification process for admission, and you check out their website to learn more here. 

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