NNS Midseason Report: North Lenoir Volleyball
NNS Midseason Report: North Lenoir Volleyball
North Lenoir volleyball is 9-1 overall and 4-0 in conference play, making an early statement in the program’s first year under the new 4A alignment.
The Hawks rolled past Washington on Sept. 11 in straight sets (25-12, 25-15, 25-15). Lakyn Whitley posted 10 service points and 14 kills, Camryn Jenkins added 9 service points, Sky Doyle tallied 21 assists, and Fawn Creech controlled the net with 4 blocks.
It’s been the same story most of the season: dominant team play and a lineup that continues to deliver across the board. North Lenoir’s only loss came against Pamlico County on Aug. 20. Since then, they’ve won six straight matches, outscoring opponents 27 sets to one.
Whitley has led the way with her athleticism and finishing ability at the net, while Jenkins has sparked runs with her serving, including 25 straight points in a sweep of Eastern Wayne. Creech has been a force defensively, Haley Hemby has provided steady contributions, and Doyle has kept the offense clicking with her setting.
On her team’s strong 9-1 start, veteran head coach Heather Carson emphasized progress. “I just want our girls to keep getting better, get better on offense and defense,” she said. “Most importantly, getting them gelling and playing together.”
North Lenoir currently sits atop the conference standings, tied with North Johnston at 4-0. The Hawks are ranked No. 4 in the 4A East RPI and No. 14 in the state overall, with playoff seeding determined solely by RPI.
Conference Standings (through Sept. 11):
North Lenoir (4-0, 9-1 overall) – 28 SW, 4 SL – 6W
North Johnston (3-0, 7-2 overall) – 22 SW, 10 SL – 5W
West Craven (2-0, 7-3 overall) – 23 SW, 14 SL – 1W
Southwest Edgecombe (1-1, 4-3 overall) – 14 SW, 9 SL – 3W
Washington (0-3, 3-7 overall) – 14 SW, 25 SL – 2L
North Pitt (0-3, 1-10 overall) – 4 SW, 30 SL – 2L
Eastern Wayne (0-3, 0-7 overall) – 1 SW, 21 SL – 7L
The rivalry with South Lenoir no longer affects the league race, but it remains a key date. North Lenoir swept the Blue Devils 3-0 on Sept. 3 and will face them again on Sept. 24 at home.
Ahead lies a critical stretch with West Craven on Sept. 16 and North Johnston on Sept. 17 — two matches that could shape the Hawks’ postseason path.
Trey’s Take: This is a very good volleyball team. Coach Carson has once again reloaded without blinking. Lakyn Whitley is playing at a special level right now and is must-watch every night. The Hawks play together, defend hard, and Fawn Creech has been a defensive wall at the net. Excited to see what’s next for this promising group.
