When Lauren Moran steps on the court on Wednesday night for the Greater Johnstown Volleyball Club All-Star match, it will cap a memorable career for the Westmont Hilltop setter.

Moran, who broke the school record for assists this season, will get to play one final match on her home court. 

She surpassed the previous Westmont record of 2,131 assists and finished the season with 2,260.

The daughter of Lee and Jackie Moran, said she had set a goal for herself in eighth grade, and achieving the goal was a great feeling.

“My coach (Denise Nairn) started me freshman year and constantly worked with me on accuracy and consistency,” Moran said. “Every year, I’ve always had big hitters who would get 15-plus kills per game. My parents always counted my assists every game, so I always knew where I was at.”

Moran’s team fell to a strong West Shamokin team in the District 6 Class AA playoffs, but the Hilltoppers’ successful campaign was a memorable one, capped with highlights that include Moran’s milestone.

“My senior season and high school career went way too fast,” she said. “All in all, high school sports made me who I am today through the communication and leadership experiences. This season was sentimental. I loved playing with this team. We were all so close, and I will always remember the game at McCort when I broke the record.”

Moran plans to attend Slippery Rock University and major in environmental studies and hopes to walk on to the volleyball team there.

Crediting her coaches for always pushing her and supplying her with the knowledge, Moran also acknowledged past players from Westmont’s teams, who worked with her, and her parents for being at every game.

“I would like to thank Coach Nairn and Coach Miller, my travel coach Jason Laymen, my parents, teammates, and everyone who has cheered us on,” Moran enthused. “It’s awesome to know that I will leave a mark on the school until the next girl breaks it. I have so much pride for the red and gray.”

• By Joe Skura 
  sports@tribdem.com
•  
• Nov 22, 2016
•  
•