Jeff Moeller, sports correspondent

Lily West and Ella Fordham have followed similar paths to reach their current positions with the Richmond Hill volleyball team.

The two began playing the game at nine years old at the town’s recreation center, and their families have played an integral part in their development.

For the both of them, it was an instant connection to the sport, and began a passion that has intensified over time.

On the school team, West is a setter and Fordham is an outside hitter.

“They are such hard workers,” said Wildcats’ head coach Danielle Ennis of her budding freshmen duo. “They want to improve and accept feedback which is going to help them improve.”

West, who used to play basketball when she was young, recalled how volleyball appeared to be a new challenge she wanted to pursue.

It was a quick transition, and West began playing for the Jacksonville Skyline Juniors Volleyball Club, her current club, where she is a libero. Making the move to setter proved to be a challenge.

“My biggest adjustment to varsity play was playing in a different position than what I play for travel ball,” said West. “I had been a setter before for middle school, but the level of competitiveness is much more intense than the previous team play. A big obstacle transitioning to setter also has been adjusting to a higher level of competition.”

West has been appreciative of the guidance from junior Raeden Sander, who has been a steady influence on her journey.

“I’ve had wonderful volleyball coaches and teammates since starting my experience, but the one person who stands out is Raeden Sander,” said West. “I met Rae in sixth grade, and she was so welcoming to me. I immediately noticed her leadership skills.

“Rae always has a positive attitude and brings so much energy to the team. I’m so grateful to have her as one of our team’s captains this year. She has definitely made my adjustment much easier than it could have been.”

Fordham also noted how there was an instant bond with the sport thanks to her days at the recreation center. Her family also played a significant role.

“I fell in love with volleyball along with the coaches and teammates right away,” said Fordham. “I spent many hours practicing in my front yard with my parents and my little brothers.”

For the past three years, Fordham has been a member of the Savannah Volleyball Elite. It has helped her make the move to the varsity.

“I recently started playing varsity,” added Fordham. “The biggest adjustment would be the pace of the game.”

Fordham also has been grateful for the support from Sander as well as senior Alexa Anderson. Her teammates, coaches and parents also have blazed the trail for her.

“I have had great mentorship from Raeden and Alexa,” said Fordham. “Honestly, though, our whole team is amazing. There are so many talented players in our area, and I am honored to be on the team. I am grateful for the outstanding coaching I have received from my club to Coach Ennis and Coach Cribbs. My mom and dad especially have helped me so much. They are the biggest influence in my volleyball career.”

Ennis has quickly realized that she has two young players on a meteoric rise.

“Lily is an exceptional defensive player which is great for a setter,” said Ennis. “ We decided to use her in the setter role. She is always looking to improve her skills. She is a great teammate and supports others.

“Ella was originally on JV, but we decided her skill set would benefit our team. She joined varsity only a few weeks ago and it allowed for a shift in our offense and defense. She is going to be quite the competitor and is a strong hitter. Her skills will only grow over time. She will be a player other teams struggle to block.

“They both will continue to improve our program.”