Orlando Christian Prep

The OCP Volleyball Senior Class ('22) have certainly had to overcome some adversity and challenges over their playing years in the volleyball program. From a new coach that brought a new style in their early high school years, to a global pandemic that affected not just one season, but the start of a second season, to a winless season. Yet, Psymbie-Kalei Bailey Morgan, Brianna Cooper and Aaliyah Gunn are in the midst of their best season in the program, on the verge of finishing the season above .500 and playing towards the programs first district win since 2017. The hard work is paying off.

On Monday October 11th, head coach Omar Soto, assistant coaches Tim Thomas, Brittany Gunn and Kelly McIntyre, along with their teammates, honored their seniors during the annual Dig Pink Match against Forest Lake Academy. 

All three players had been in the program for over 8+ years since they were elementary students. They all expressed their thanks and appreciation to Coaches Gunn and McIntyre, who were the coaches that introduced them to the sport and helped mold them into the players they are today.

ABOUT PSYMBIE-KALEI BAILEY MORGAN

Psymbie’s Athletic Achievements include playing Volleyball at OCP for 9 years, and being on the Track team since 6th grade. She qualified for Regionals in Shot Put and Discus in 11th grade

Psymbie’s Academic Achievements include being part of the National Honors Society and International Thespian Society, and receiving A Honor Roll and A/B Honor Roll throughout her middle school and high school years.

Psymbie’s Plans for the Future include taking the steps to meet the requirement for becoming a dermatologist physician's assistant, and living debt free and making six figures.

"I would like to thank my mom for the support she’s given throughout the past 9 years that I've been playing.  I would like to thank Coach Gunn and Coach Kelly for introducing me to volleyball, and helping me grow in the sport. And a special thanks to God for allowing me to have good health through the years so I can play, and allowing all these special people to become my mentors throughout high school."

ABOUT BRIANNA COOPER

Brianna’s Athletic Achievements include playing OCP volleyball for 8 years. She recently received an All-Tournament Player selection at the Lake Mary Prep Tournament this year. Running Track & Field for 6 years where she was recognized as TRACK RUNNER OF THE YEAR. And this winter, she will be playing soccer for a second year.

Brianna's Academic Achievements include A/B Honor Roll for all 4 years of high school, induction into the National Society for High School Scholars, and future induction into the National Honor Society.

Brianna's Plans for the Future include attending Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), where she will study to become a veterinarian, or study criminal justice.

"I would like to thank God first for allowing me to stay healthy and continue to play the sport I love...  My mom for all the time and money she’s invested in me and for always being my biggest supporter and hardest coach… My little brother Jayden for being at all my games, and always being my #1 fan in the stands… Last, but not least, I'd like to thank the rest of my family and friends for always showing up for me."

ABOUT AALIYAH GUNN 

Aaliyah's Athletic Achievements include playing volleyball for 9 years and being named captain of the 2021 team, running Track for 4 years where she qualified for the Regionals in the 800-meter dash, playing basketball for 2 seasons and playing softball for one year.

Aaliyah's Academic Achievements include being an A/B Honor Roll student all throughout high school, and being inducted into the Junior National Honors Society

Aaliyah's Plans for the Future include joining the United States Air Force.

“I would like to give thanks to my parents for the time and money they have put into this sport, and for believing in me. I would like to thank my first volleyball coach, Coach Kelly for introducing me to the game. I want to thank my school coaches and club coaches for their time spent. Special thanks to my sister Aalyssa for being my best friend on and off the court. Thanks to my mom for everything she’s done and for being my coach throughout the years. Last, but not least, a HUGE thanks to God for keeping me healthy with no injuries throughout my volleyball career.”

FINISHING THE REGULAR SEASON

The Warriors were unable to win the match against Forest Lake, dropping 3 sets 25-15, 25-15 and 25-19. The team went on the road and defeated CFCA to snap a 3-game losing streak the next night in 3 sets, 25-14, 25-19, 25-20.

Unfortunately, the Lady Warriors were unable to finish the regular season with a win as they lost to Mt. Dora Christian Academy in three sets, 25-17, 25-16, and 25-17. 

On the positive side, OCP finished with a 12-10 record, which was the best win percentage since 2017. And 12 wins was the most since 2012 when OCP finished the season 17-9.

The Lady Warriors host Regional Quarterfinals against the ICS Comets.