Champions are made in the gym.

The old adage holds true at Morgan Academy, where the senior class that only lost one volleyball match in two state title years has to be replaced and the remaining Lady Senators have to find a way to keep up the high expectations of a winning program.

The remaining players have begun working in the gym and weight room to achieve this goal.

“Every Wednesday we have what’s called open gym,” Morgan volleyball head coach Jennifer Moore said.

“The girls can come in and hit and serve or really do whatever they feel like they need to do. They have also been working out Tuesday and Thursday running and jumping ropes.”

While replacing such a successful class can be difficult, the next generation of Senators is no stranger to winning either.

Many of the players moving up were on a team that went 20-3 last year.

“I think they have to realize they are going to have a bull’s-eye on their backs a little bit,” Moore said.

“There will be a lot of programs that are gunning for them because of the success of the last two years, but I think these girls are talented too and can continue to be good.”

Moore said this year’s team should have several interchangeable players that will run the 5-1 system implemented last year well.

“I really like the 5-1 and will try to keep it running with this set,” Moore said.

“We have a couple of different setters we can swap in and out, depending on which one is hot at the moment.”

Moore added, “We have some good players in the middle coming up with Megan Lee Simmons and Callie Jones, and Morgan Smith on the left hits the ball really well.

“No matter what, we are going to have a good group,” Moore said. “I’m excited.”