We believe there’s something more important than just winning or losing a tournament. We believe that the team, school, and fans who support their athletes with dignity and class are the true champions. That’s why we’ve proudly sponsored the WIAA/Rural Mutual Insurance Sportsmanship Award for 56 years.
We would like to congratulate Washburn High School on being this year’s recipient of the Girls Volleyball Sportsmanship award.
When talking with Head Coach, Jenna Galligan, we asked her what this award meant to her as a coach, the team and community along with how they teach their athletes about sportsmanship.
It is truly an honor to be recognized for this award. Our volleyball season was put on pause in the fall, but the players, coaches, fans, administration, and community all held onto hope for what the spring season could bring. We were so grateful that the WIAA held an alternate tournament and so many unforgettable memories were made on the way to winning a State Championship. This past year challenged us all in many ways, but it was incredible to see the positive attitudes our players kept through the adversity, and I think that is a testament to their character.
Sportsmanship and how you treat others has long been a focus in the Washburn Volleyball Program. As a coach, you try to give players guidance on how to respond in certain situations (good & bad), not only on the court but off the court, as well. It certainly feels good to be noticed by others for the character our team displays, and it says a lot about the community we live in. Winning this award is a reminder that people notice how you carry yourself and how you make them feel, and it does not cost a thing to be kind to others. I could not be more proud of our team in that regard.
Coach Galligan has been with the Washburn Volleyball program for 5 years (this was her first as head coach). Her favorite part about coaching is seeing the growth and success of the players not only during the season but through other life milestones.
She went on to say, “You develop a bond with each player, and it is nice to know that maybe you had a small part in the people that they become. I believe the lessons learned in high school sports are stepping-stones to the things we face during our adult lives out in the “real world” and receiving this award further solidifies that belief.”
Congratulation again on a great season and winning the WIAA/Rural Mutual Sportsmanship award. This is a great achievement for the Washburn community.
