Shannon Frakes, a junior student-athlete at Washburn University, has emerged as a key force for the Ichabod volleyball squad this season. Her remarkable rise to a consistent starting position has been met with significant acclaim, as she leads her team and the MIAA conference in total assists. This shift marks a pivotal moment in her collegiate career, transforming her from a rotational player into a standout performer who is now confidently guiding her team's offense.
Emergence of a Star Setter: Shannon Frakes Leads Washburn Volleyball
In Topeka, Kansas, a noteworthy story is unfolding within the collegiate volleyball scene. Shannon Frakes, a junior at Washburn University, has dramatically elevated her presence on the court, securing a consistent starting role for the Ichabod volleyball team during the initial weeks of the current season. This development comes after her first two years saw her participating in just 45 sets. Her head coach, Chris Herron, recognized her latent potential, stating, "Shannon easily could have been our starter here for the last couple of years." Herron's foresight proved accurate, as Frakes has not only embraced the opportunity but has excelled. She currently spearheads the team and the MIAA conference with an impressive 158 total assists, a testament to her skill and dedication. Her outstanding play has not gone unnoticed, as she was honored with the prestigious MIAA Setter of the Week award for two consecutive weeks, solidifying her status as a top-tier athlete in the conference. Coach Herron further elaborated on Frakes's commitment, recounting a conversation at the close of the previous season: "As soon as the season was over with last year I pulled her aside and said, 'the team is yours now.' She grabbed it and went off with it. She is playing at a crazy high level right now." Frakes herself attributes much of her success to the strong bond and trust among her teammates. "I think it really helps that my teammates show that they trust me, kind of gives me confidence," she shared. "I know I want to play well for them, so we really just lean on each other through this." Looking ahead, the No. 4 ranked Washburn team is set to host the Ichabod Classic at Lee Arena. They will face the University of Missouri - St. Louis and Arkansas at Monticello in two challenging matches scheduled for Friday, September 11.
The journey of Shannon Frakes exemplifies the power of perseverance and the significance of team trust in athletic success. Her transition from a less prominent role to a leading position serves as an inspiring example for aspiring athletes. It highlights that talent, when nurtured and given the right opportunity, can flourish spectacularly. Her story underscores the idea that a strong support system, both from coaches and teammates, can significantly boost an individual's confidence and performance, ultimately contributing to collective triumphs.
