Defensive specialist Maggie Colley often set the tone for Morgan Academy’s volleyball team.

Colley is The Selma Times-Journal’s volleyball player of the year. The junior edged out Keith’s Erica Smiley, Southside’s Jasmine Smith and Kanesha McGraw of Selma.

When Colley was called into Morgan Academy Gymnasium on Jan. 31 to receive the honor, shockwaves soared through her.

“Something like this has never happened to me before,” Colley said. “This award makes me feel really appreciated. I’m glad to be on this team.”

Former Morgan Academy coach Kayla Thacker said Colley’s unique skill set made things easier for the Lady Senators.

“With Maggie on the back row, she instills a level of confidence and trust in the rest of the team that she’s got the back,” Thacker said. “They count on her to set up the play. She always makes plays happen for other people no matter where the ball hits. She completes plays herself from the back row.”

Colley credited Thacker and the Lady Senator teammates for her success. She was named the team’s most outstanding defensive player in 2016, 2017 and earned the team’s most valuable player award this season.

“I always have a good attitude and I never give up,” Colley said. “I play 110 percent all of the time and never dwell on my mistakes. In volleyball, you can’t dwell on your mistakes.”

Despite her success, Colley said there’s always room for improvement.

“You can never practice too much,” Colley said. “You always have to practice with your teammates.”

Thacker said Colley’s desire makes her a solid player.

“Her work ethic and determination allows her to turn bad situations into good ones for our team,” Thacker said. “She’s a very talented and determined young player. I have enjoyed watching her grow each year.”

After graduation from Morgan Academy, Colley said she’d like to play volleyball at Troy University and possibly major in Nursing.