North Lenoir’s Alivia Whitley Signs with Lenoir Community College Volleyball

LA GRANGE — North Lenoir senior Alivia Whitley made her college dreams official this week, signing to play volleyball at Lenoir Community College.

Whitley, a two-sport athlete early in her high school career, played both volleyball and softball for the North Lenoir Hawks before deciding to focus solely on volleyball after her junior year — a decision that paid off.

“I’m really excited,” Whitley said. “I worked pretty hard. I started off slow, but I got better over the years.”

Whitley, who has been playing volleyball for nearly eight years — including two years of travel ball — credited her development to the time spent at North Lenoir and under the guidance of head coach Heather Carson.

“She helped me out a lot to become the person I am, the player I am today, especially with my hitting and blocking,” Whitley said.

Carson spoke highly of Whitley’s growth and impact on the court.

“Alivia’s volleyball journey exemplifies dedication and consistent growth,” Carson said. “She played two years of JV and two years of varsity, and throughout that time, she demonstrated unwavering dedication and hard work that led to significant strides in her game, particularly at the net. Through constant effort and focus, she dramatically improved her blocking and attacking skills, building her confidence and becoming an impact player. Her ability to alter and disrupt opposing teams has been a game changer, often shifting momentum in our favor.”

When it came time to make her college decision, staying local and joining a familiar environment felt like the perfect fit.

“I chose LCC because I’ve known the girls for a while,” Whitley said. “They’re a really good school to play for.”

Her journey to this point has been filled with hard work, family support, and a lot of fun.

“They’ve been very big for me,” she said about her family. “I started with softball, and they supported me with that — and then it was volleyball.”

Her mother, Wendy Hammonds, shared how proud she is of her daughter’s perseverance and growth.

“Alivia has worked hard these past four years, and especially the last two years with travel ball,” Hammonds said. “I am so proud of you. I look forward to where your college years are going to take you, and mom is just ecstatic at where this journey is going to go.”

As for the journey so far?

“It’s been exciting and really fun,” Whitley said with a smile.