In the heart of Ona, West Virginia, resides Kaylee Adkins, a spirited 13-year-old attending Milton Middle School, who has been making waves in the world of volleyball, showcasing her skills as a Defensive Specialist and Outside Hitter.

Kaylee is the daughter of Shandy and Jon Adkins, her younger sibling Emma, a third-grader at Culloden Elementary, immerses herself in basketball and cheer.

 Kaylee enjoys great camaraderie on the volleyball court, where she considers her teammates as a second family.

Kaylee's journey in volleyball began three years ago when she discovered the sport through school intramurals, “I fell in love with the sport at that time and have played since,” Kaylee shared with Stroll Barboursville.

 Reflecting on her coaches, Kaylee expresses gratitude for the collective guidance she has received, and had trouble with identifying one as her favorite, "All of my coaches have done so much for me; I couldn't possibly pick just one," she stated.

What sets Kaylee's experience apart is the sense of family within her team. "I love the family environment of my team and how close we are," she beams. Beyond the competitive arena, Kaylee has garnered recognition as the Midland Insurance Student of the Week and has been awarded Student of the 9 Weeks, a system by several teachers, for recognizing students with good grades.

Participating in volleyball has taught Kaylee valuable life lessons. She has embraced the art of making new friends and stepping out of her comfort zone. "Having fun with my friends while playing the sport I love" is what she cherishes the most about volleyball. She also indicated that her favorite thing is “Spending time with my teammates in between games and at tournaments.”

Looking ahead, Kaylee envisions a future where she contributes to the world of sports. Whether pursuing a career as an Athletic Trainer or an Orthopedist, her ambitions extend to playing college volleyball. Kaylee's zest for life and volleyball is encapsulated in her advice for newcomers: "Work hard and be willing to try something new, and have fun."

As Stroll Barboursville celebrates Kaylee Adkins as this issue's Athlete of the Month, her story becomes an inspiration for aspiring athletes and a testament to the power of sports in shaping character and fostering lasting connections.