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Through the prominent rise of the George Rogers Clark High School volleyball program over the last three years, Kelsey McKeehan has been a consistent force of strength.

She will continue to do so at the collegiate level.

Last Thursday, Nov. 16, the senior setter and right-side hitter committed to play college volleyball at Walsh University in North Canton, Ohio.

“We celebrate Kelsey, and it has really been a joy for me to get to watch this young lady and this team this past season,” said George Rogers Clark High School Athletic Director Terry Yeast. “The accolades that she has received being one of the top assist individuals in the entire state of Kentucky is pretty phenomenal.”

During the 2020 season, GRC’s volleyball program fell on tough times as it finished with a 0-15 record.

However, following some personnel changes, the program’s fortune began to turn around.

Two years later, in 2022, the team finished as 40th District champions with a successful 18-11 record.

In 2023, the Lady Cards repeated as 40th District champions with a highly respectable 25-6 record – beating top-ranked teams such as Madison Central.

McKeehan led the team with 791 assists, averaging nearly 30 per game and equaling over 80% of the team’s total assists in games she played.

Among other statistical numbers, McKeehan also proved to be a valuable defensive presence by finishing with 273 digs.

GRC girls volleyball coach Kainan Hudson noted her contributions, having worked with McKeehan for the past three seasons.

“I’m super, super proud of Kelsey and her accomplishments and what she’s done for this program over the last three years,” he said. “To see her go and play at the next level is very exciting,” Hudson said.

Hudson was not the only one to speak, as several of McKeehan’s teammates were also present.

“I’m just really thankful for all the memories that we have made together,” noted senior Ella Grace Lowe, seated next to fellow senior Lauren Anderson. “I’m really proud of you, and I can’t wait to do great things.”

McKeehan was also seated with her family, including parents Nathan and Mandy McKeehan.

“I’m just super proud of her, and I can’t wait to see what she accomplishes,” said Mandy McKeehan, with father Nathan agreeing. “It’s been her dream for a long time.”

As for the star player herself, McKeehan was filled with gratitude, first addressing her parents.

“I want to thank you two for all the sacrifices you’ve made to get me to this point. I wouldn’t be here without you”, she said. “I want to thank [coaches] for all the hours that they put in to put me where I am today [and] help me with extra reps every day, my teammates who made the past six years just incredible…and everyone that came out today.”

While noting that she will be grateful for her time at GRC, McKeehan also expressed enthusiasm when asked what she looks forward to as a college athlete and student.

“Just to better myself, to get a good education, and to make even better memories,” she said.