CHARMCO – Fans of Greenbrier West’s high-flying volleyball program have had a lot to cheer about the past five seasons. This Saturday at Woodrow Wilson High School, they can cheer for a couple of decorated seniors one last time. Class A All-State middle hitter Kenzie O’Dell will be joined by Special Honorable Mention defensive specialist Brooke Nutter as members of the Class A South All-Star volleyball team. Adding to the honor, Greenbrier West head coach Cindy Nutter joins the pair as one of the coaches of the South squad.
O’Dell has been a force since joining the Cavaliers, earning Special Honorable Mention honors in both 2019 and 2020 before being named to the Class A first team following the this season. O’Dell helped the Cavaliers claim Region III titles in both 2019 and 2021, automatically punching their ticket to the state tournament as regional champions. As regional runners-up in 2018 and 2020, the Cavaliers also advanced to the tournament. Not many student-athletes ever make it to a single state tournament. O’Dell enjoyed the experience all four years of her career, and also earned a spot on the 2020 Class A All-Tournament Team. Over her Cavalier career, she tallied an amazing 468 kills to go along with 37 aces and 74 blocks.
“We didn’t get the result we wanted, but we proved we’re one of the better teams in the state. The accomplishment, it was worth it. It was a real honor to be able to compete in the states all four years.”
O’Dell was asked what she expected the all-star experience to be like. “I’m excited because it’s the last time I’ll hit the court. I want to leave a good impression for everyone because I don’t plan on playing beyond high school.” Most importantly, O’Dell stated “I want to give all the glory to God because without Him, I wouldn’t have my talent.”
Teammate Brooke Nutter was a Special Honorable Mention selection following both the 2020 and 2021 seasons. Nutter became a starter during her junior season and finished her career with 65 kills, 45 aces, and four blocks. Usually scrappy on the court, Nutter was carefree when asked about the honor of being on the South team. “There’s no stress. It’s a chance to go out and have fun one more time, meet the other girls and just play. I’m going to have fun.” After a pause, Nutter grinned and proudly said “I think it will be something I can brag about to my kids someday!”
Cindy Nutter took the Cavalier volleyball program over heading into the 2014 season, building West volleyball into one of the most consistent and successful programs in the state. Cindy has led Greenbrier West to four consecutive sectional championships, two regional titles over the past three seasons, and five consecutive state tournament appearances. Cindy has guided the Cavaliers to a 167-125-15 record over the past eight seasons. Cindy even had the privilege of coaching Class AAA all-star Brooklyn Morgan during the 2018-19 seasons as those were Morgan’s freshman and sophomore years, respectively, spent at Greenbrier West. Nutter will co-coach the Class A South all-stars with Gilmer County’s Chelsea Stickelman. Ironically, it was the Titans that ended the Cavaliers’ season on November 12 in Charleston.
The North South Volleyball All-Stars will compete in the Woodrow Wilson High School gym at noon on Saturday, December 4. A full slate of volleyball matches is on tap with Class AAA, AA, A competing in a round robin format.
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