The undisputed 2018 12U NCHVC Gold Ball National Champion Team was “Loving LIFE”: Kiah Covington (front, from left), Claire South; Coach Tonya Lipp (back), Josie Benson, Elli Gerbholz, Allyson Crow, Eva Benson and Ally Lipp. Not pictured: Eleighana Ruhman and Madison Derden.

The Faulkner County Falcon 12 & Under and 14 & Under teams did well in the NCHVC (National Christian Homeschool Volleyball Championships) tournament held in October in Wichita, Kansas.  

“The 12U team walked into nationals as an undefeated team in our regular season and tournament play,” said Coach Tonya Lipp. “Even though we had an impressive season, our goal at nationals was to be able to return home knowing we did our best and were positive in our play and behavior.  

“Watching it all come together and everyone getting time on the court was an emotional experience. This was their dream season and they returned home with the first 12U gold ball ever awarded, and the Falcon organization’s first undisputed championship win. They all have a little piece of history they’ll be able to claim.

12U players selected for the All-Tournament Team were  Josie Benson, Elli Gerbholz and Ally Lipp.

The 14U team was coached by LeSha Smith. “The national tournament is a great way for our team to play against teams from all over,” said Smith. “On our first day we played a South Louisiana team and then an Indiana team. It is three days of playing hard, cheering for our other teams and making amazing memories.

“Our girls played strong. They never gave up on themselves or each other. I am so proud of our 14U Falcon team!”

14U players selected for the All-Tournament Team were Kinley Corder, Kaisyn Covington, Grace Harris and Aubrey Hudson.

The runner-up 2018 14U NCHVC Silver Ball National Champion Team was “Loving LIFE”: Natalie Sansom (front, from left), Natalie Smith, Natalie Steinmetz; Kady Belle Harper (back), Kalynne Benson, Savannah Crow, Grace Harris, Kinley Corder, Aubrey Hudson, Alyssa Smith, Kaisyn Covington and Emily Roys. Not pictured: Kacie Clark, Sydney Keeter, AnnaBeth Turner and Coach LeSha Smith.

Sydney Keeter  was selected for the Christian Character Award for 14U. Eva Benson received the Christian Character Award for 12U.

The Faulkner County Homeschool Athletic Association (FCHAA ) provides sports teams for homeschool students. For more information, please email [email protected] or visit faulknerfalcons.com.