Oak Park High School’s girls volleyball team honored its seniors at their last home game on Oct. 10. The ceremony took place after the Eagles played an intense game against Moorpark. 

“I had fun playing with my teammates and the seniors even though it was a little disappointing because we did not win,” senior captain Taylor Mansmann said. “The seniors all work together nicely and we will all miss playing with each other.”

The seniors were presented with flowers, gifts and speeches from their teammates, making for an emotional sendoff for these players.

“Avyn and my sister are doing my speech tonight for senior night and I am excited to hear what they say,” senior Ava Karatsoni said. “I’ve enjoyed my senior season and playing with my friends, I am going to miss it.”

Senior night is a special high school sports tradition and a chance to show good sportsmanship. 

“I loved that our school gave the other school flowers and that both teams were very kind to each other to celebrate senior night,” Mansmann said. 

Oftentimes, senior night can be emotional for the families of the seniors. 

“I am here to support my daughter Naava Wender who is a senior on this team,” Evan Wender said. “It brings tears to my eyes to watch her grow up and grow as a player and person, it is just sad for me to see it end.” 

While it is bittersweet to see seniors leave, it is also exciting to watch them start a new chapter of their lives. With a final record of 8-16, the girls unfortunately didn’t make it to playoffs, but the memories made will be unforgettable.