November 17th 2024.
Chloe Elarton, the setter for Valor Christian High School, has made a name for herself with her impeccable passes, earning her a scholarship to Georgia for volleyball. Her teammate, outside hitter Kenzy McGatlin, is known for her powerful spikes and solid blocks, which have landed her a spot at LSU for beach volleyball.
But their success on the court didn't come overnight. The dynamic duo has been playing together for years, representing national teams and traveling clubs, and competing in prestigious tournaments. Now, they are ready to take their talents to the next level. However, amidst all their achievements, nothing compares to the excitement they feel for the CHSAA state volleyball tournament at the Denver Coliseum.
"It's just so special because we're always together," Elarton shared after their victory against Legend High School in the Class 5A state title game, sweeping the match 25-23, 25-17, 25-20 to claim their third consecutive crown. "We have such strong bonds, and this is where everything comes together for us. That's why it means so much."
McGatlin chimed in, "In beach volleyball, it's just two people, but here, it's like a family. There's a different vibe, and we have each other's backs through the tough moments. That's what makes winning a third title with this family so amazing."
Valor Christian's dominance was unstoppable, as they finished the season with a record of 28-1, defeating Pine Creek in the semifinals. They had also beaten Legend twice during the regular season, winning six out of seven sets. "You know, I think beating a good team like Legend three times in one season might be harder than the three-peat," Coach Jayne McHugh said with tears in her eyes.
The Eagles entered the finals having lost only one match in their last 86 games, their defeat against Fossil Ridge in October. Unfortunately, they didn't get the chance to avenge that loss in the championship game as Legend defeated Fossil Ridge in the other semifinal match, earning their spot in the final.
"I think our defense was what made this team unique," McHugh explained. "It really came together for us."
Even though Legend's season ended with a loss, senior middle blocker Brenna Coffman, who will be playing for Portland State on a scholarship, couldn't help but gush about the electrifying atmosphere at the Coliseum, where five matches are played simultaneously, and the fans are cheering at the top of their lungs. "It's pretty incredible," she said. "It really gets you pumped up."
Coach Madisen Busler understands the importance of club teams, such as Colorado Juniors Volleyball Club and Front Range Volleyball Club, in developing players' skills and preparing them for college. However, she also knows why high school volleyball holds a special place in the players' hearts, regardless of the outcome.
"High school volleyball is more about passion," Busler explained. "Winning at the state tournament may not guarantee a scholarship, but it's something special. It's a chance to prove that you're the best in the state, and it stays with you forever."
Busler can attest to that, having won a state championship 10 years ago while playing for Grandview High School before continuing her volleyball career at the New Jersey Institute of Technology.
Despite being the heavy favorites, Valor Christian didn't underestimate their opponent, knowing that Legend junior outside hitter Reese Betschart believed they could pull off an upset. "We just have to put our egos aside and play as a team," Betschart said before the game. "It's all about mental toughness and composure, which we've worked on a lot this year."
In the end, Valor's talent and skill proved too much for Legend to handle. And in Elarton, daughter of former MLB pitcher Scott Elarton, the Eagles have a poised and experienced player. "I think she's the best setter in the Western United States," McHugh praised.
Elarton has been a force to be reckoned with since her sophomore year, earning the title of MaxPreps Colorado High School Volleyball Player of the Year and being named to the MaxPreps Underclass All-America Team. She continued to lead the Eagles to another state title as a junior in 2023 and was named a MaxPreps Junior All-American.
She has also been playing for Colorado Juniors for six seasons and won a United States Girls Junior National Championship. "She's amazing," McGatlin praised. "She can make any pass, and it's always in the perfect spot. If she touches the ball, you know it's going to be a good play."
As Valor celebrates their victory, they can't help but look forward to what the future holds. And for Elarton and McGatlin, their bond as teammates and friends will continue to bring them success on and off the court.
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