Kentucky Senior Day Honors Seniors from Both Teams

By LARRY VAUGHT

Considering the success the Kentucky volleyball team has had the last four years, I expected UK’s five seniors — Kaz Brown, Ashley Dusek, Emily Franklin, Harper Hempel and Darian Mack — to be a bit emotional before Sunday’s match with Mississippi on Senior Day.

It was when the players came out with family members. However, there was also a major surprise — at least for me.

Before the Kentucky players and their families were recognized, Kentucky did something I have not seen before on Senior Day. Mississippi seniors Lexi Thompson and Kate Gibson were both recognized and honored.

That’s right. Two players from the opposing team were presented flowers by UK on Kentucky’s Senior Day.

Dusek was surprised after the three-set UK sweep that I was surprised at what UK did.

“We appreciate the seniors on the other side but want it to be our day,” Dusek, UK’s emotional leader said.

But she said the prematch recognition was standard fare.

“It’s really nice of us. We like to recognize everyone,” Dusek said. “You have dedicated four years to the program, so it’s nice to do that.”

It is. But it’s also unusual in a good way.

Photo Courtesy: Vicky Graff