Student Athlete of the Week – Lyla Barkett

Xavier Prep girls' volleyball outside hitter Lyla Barkett is this week's student athlete of the week.

Barkett is a star for the Xavier Prep Saints, leading the team with 178 kills and 62 aces, but what makes her a one-of-a-kind athlete is the energetic attitude she brings every time she steps onto the court.

"Her mindset has really just been spread across the team, and I think it's filled everyone else with confidence and trust within each other, and she just really sets the tone with that," head coach Baylie Dashner said.

Winning multiple DEL and Queens of Cook Street titles, Barkett credits the support of her family as a key factor in her drive to be the best.

"I want to be the best version of myself, also for myself and for them," Barkett said. "Obviously, it is very difficult to juggle school and volleyball at the same time, but visualizing that success is really what keeps me motivated."

Having been on the team for the past three years, Barkett has demonstrated such a strong leadership presence that the coaches have recognized it as equivalent to having another coach on the floor, something coach Dashner could not be more grateful for.

"I think our whole team has really turned to her and looks to her for leadership in those moments," coach Dashner said. "She's really stepped up and just kind of guided everyone with a really strong mindset, so we're super proud of her."

We are always looking for Student-Athlete of the Week nominations. If you know a senior who should be featured next, be sure to contact the KESQ sports department.

The Student-Athlete of the Week segment airs every Tuesday.