Prep volleyball: MVPs sacrificed to lead teams to state titles

SALT LAKE CITY — Team sports offer a unique experience for athletes.

Individuals must find a way to work together for a common goal, which includes setting aside personal aspirations, desires and needs.

And while some teenage athletes might struggle with the sacrifices associated with a group endeavor, this year's Deseret News Most Valuable Players managed to excel as individuals while playing leadership roles on their respective teams.

Some were vocal, others quiet and hard-working. But they all shared the ability to elevate the play of those around them.

5A MVP

Candace Richins

When Davis High struggled on the volleyball court, the Darts knew one thing would help them regain their confidence — getting the ball to Candace Richins.

"She was our best all-around player, our go-to player," said Davis head coach Lori Salvo, whom Richins affectionately refers to as Salvy. "When they got nervous in games, our setters would get her the ball, even on the back row, and she was so consistent. She's a great blocker, great passer … great server, just a great all-around player that we're really going to miss."

The senior outside hitter, who signed with Utah State on Nov. 11, emerged as a leader because of her attitude and work ethic. Her ability to put the ball away was impressive, but she also anchored the Darts defensively by being one of the team's best passers and blockers.

"Whatever we asked her to do, she did it," said Salvo. "We wanted her to play one rotation on the right and two on the left, and she whole-heartedly did it because that's what we needed. In fact, she thought it made her a better player to hit from both sides. Whatever was for the betterment of the team, she was all about that."

Richins helped lead the Darts to a 5A state title, which included wins over three other top five teams — Pleasant Grove, Lone Peak and Lehi.

She had 265 kills, 297 assists, 137 digs, 27 aces and 49 blocks this season. In addition to leading the volleyball team to the region and state titles, she participated in Davis High's musical "Fiddler on the Roof."

"She'd finish with practice, get some food in her and head to musical practice," Salvo said of the honor student.

Richins wasn't a captain for the team, but that didn't prevent her from finding a way to inspire her teammates.