CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Two years ago, the Northwest Vikings volleyball team hadn’t won a district championship in school history. Now, they’ve won two consecutive district titles under the leadership of two different head coaches.
Sonia Franklin was hired to lead the Northwest High volleyball program back in May 2024, and the program hasn’t looked back since.
“As a coach, everything I do is very organized,” said Franklin. “I’m very positive and uplifting; I live by the motto that the person who thinks they can do it is passed off to the person who is doing it.”
Part of Franklins’ coaching strategy was exploring the talent within her squad. While most of her players had previously stuck to one spot on the court, Franklin encouraged them to be flexible, and they found success in multiple spots in the rotation.
“I wanted them to be uncomfortable at times, to do things they weren’t used to,” Franklin told Clarksville Now. “‘I wanted them to be well rounded. Some girls who thought they couldn’t play a certain role ended up thriving.”
The Vikings started the season off strong with a 5-1 record and continued to build throughout the year, earning them the third seed in the district 14-3A tournament. Despite having a lower seed, the Vikings fought their way to the district championship where they defeated West Creek High.
“These girls had done so much in such a short amount of time,” Franklin said. “I told them all year that they’re capable to win this thing, and I’m glad it came to fruition on the floor. I was just lucky to coach such amazing talent.”
“We tried to stay locked in and prepare for what was ahead,” said Northwest volleyball player Mckena Whitten. “Stay focused; the next step matters most.”
Now, the Vikings begin the offseason and prepare to defend their district title, seeking a three-peat. While the Vikings lost an impactful senior class, they’re not rebuilding, they’re reloading.
“I lost a large senior class, so it’s time to restore the next level,” said Franklin. “I want them to step up and take over their spots. I’ve had so much support from administration, parents, players, I have no doubt we will continue in the right direction.”