Aaliyah Royster
Guest Contributor
In the midst of the excitement and chaos of the volleyball team winning the Class 6 State Championship game on November 19, it’s easy to overlook the dedicated fans cheering the players through their victory, but it’s hard not to hear one devoted parent that supported the team throughout the season.
If you have gone to any of the volleyball games this season, you have no doubt heard one voice rise above the crowd: John Cason, a parent with a daughter on the JV volleyball team, has made a place in the hearts of the Alexandria City High School volleyball community. Cason has led the parents in chants and cheers every minute of almost every game and has stepped up when the audience is particularly lackluster. On several occasions, he has also taken over the student section, leading cheers of his own and getting the students fired up.
Throughout the season, Cason created his own slogan: “Defense wins championships, ladies!” which he shouts when the team is in serve-receive or is set up for blocks. Although his advice wouldn’t fare well amongst volleyball coaches, the team’s strong defense was the key in defeating Colgan’s towering offense in the State Finals game. The slogan has become a humorous inspiration amongst the team and parents, and a sign sporting the slogan was made for him to hold at games.
Cason has a real knack for firing up spectators and the players on the court and will be seen in the stands next volleyball season, working his magic. For now, hopefully, he is resting his voice for next year’s successes on both the court and the cheering section.
Photo by Aaliyah Royster
