Jeff Moeller, correspondent

For Kaliah King, volleyball was not always at the forefront of her athletic career. Growing up, King was first enamored with both gymnastics and dance. She did dance for two years, and gymnastics for six.

But her father, Heath, changed the mind of the Richmond Hill senior.

“My love for volleyball began when I got to watch my Dad play for fun with some of his work colleagues,” said King. “For me, volleyball was not my first sport of choice, gymnastics and dance had been my life thus far.

“I began volleyball the summer going into sixth grade but my season got cut short a few months in due to COVID.”

King, who is a middle and right-side hitter for the Wildcats, gained a better appreciation and passion for the game after she watched play at nationals. She was 14 and played for the 15-under Club Savannah team.

“Seeing the older girls playing especially at such a high level helped me see the bigger picture for my future,” said King. “It ignited the desire for me to play in college and I’m so grateful that I have the ability and opportunity to do it.”

Two years ago, King gained a sense of confidence, but she still had some doubts. In middle school, King still had strong connections with her club team.

King moved on from Club Savannah to OTVA in Jacksonville before she reached Savanna Volleyball Elite, her current club.

“I think I finally got comfortable on the court around two years ago but some days it still feels like my first day on Earth,” reflected King.

“Unfortunately, I never made Richmond Hill’s middle school team, but my second club season had to be my favorite from back then.

“I made endless friendships back then with amazing girls from other schools that I’m still close with to this day.”

Yet, head coach Danielle Ennis has watched King evolve into a complete player physically and mentally.

“Kailah has been a three-year varsity player who has grown into one of the anchors of our team,” explained Ennis. “As a strong middle hitter and blocker, she makes a tremendous impact on both sides of the net. What I love most about her is her determination and competitive spirit. She’s headstrong, fearless, and always wants the ball when the game is on the line.”

King also has been impressed by her grit and determination.

“She embraces challenges, pushes herself and her teammates to be better, and leads by the example she sets every day in practice and matches,” added Ennis. “Her toughness, confidence, and willingness to do whatever the team needs make her an invaluable part of our program. She’s the kind of player every coach loves to have because you know she’s going to compete until the very last point.”

When she isn’t playing volleyball, King enjoys spending time at the beach. She also has relished her family’s extensive travels through the years.

“I absolutely love the ocean and all types of activities you can do there,” said King.”My family loves to travel so I’ve experienced parasailing over the Florida Keys, dealing with the worst sunburn from the Bahamas, almost getting stung by jellyfish off the coast of LA, and so many more fun things.”

For the fall, however, King has her sights set on doing her part in helping to bring the Wildcats their fifth consecutive regional title and a deep postseason run.

“This fall I really want to emphasize continuing to build upon what I and former Wildcats have achieved to continue our success for the season,” said King. “I have no doubts about my teammates, and I believe we’re going to build on a strong foundation. It’s going to take work and dedication, but that’s what this sport is about and what makes it so special to me.”