By Derrick Smith

There are people in each of our lives that help shape us into the people we become. Whether the influence they have is big or small, the impact they make on our lives is important. Kinley Williams has a few people that she says have been key in her development as a person and an athlete.
“My coaches have made a big impact on me,” she said. “Coach Vic and coach Nikki Cool have taught me a lot about the sport of volleyball and motivated me to always work hard. My family have been good role models for me to look up to, especially my older sister. She has taught me to not care what others think and throughout our many years of fighting has taught me how to have thick skin.”

Williams is a senior at Claremore High School plays volleyball for the Lady Zebras varsity team. She has been playing the sport for seven years and currently plays outside hitter and defensive specialist. There has been a lot of time and effort that Kinley has put in to help her grow as an athlete. Being dedicated is something that she says is vital to growing.
“You have to be willing to miss out on social events and sacrificing your social life if you want to be the best,” she said. “You have to give it your best when you are on the court, but also when you are at practice.”
Claremore head volleyball coach, Kim Mabbott says that Williams is a key player for her squad.
“Kinley is in her senior year and plays outside for us,” she said. “She has played in every game and is a difference-maker on the court. She is super competitive and that shows on the court.”
She has enjoyed a lot of memorable moments with her team and teammates, but Kinley says that there is one moment that stands out as her favorite.
“Making it to Nationals with my club team is definitely my favorite memory,” she said. “It was really great to enjoys that success with my teammates.”
Williams is also a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athlete.