Hart Volleyball Senior Alayna Schiller Named Athlete of the Week After Surpassing 2,000 Career Digs

September 17, 2026

Alayna Schiller Achieves 2,000 Career Digs

Hart High School senior Alayna Schiller has been named Athlete of the Week after surpassing 2,000 career digs as the volleyball team’s libero. She achieved the milestone during a home game against Orchard View, an event celebrated by her teammates who made posters to mark the occasion. Schiller reached this goal at the beginning of her senior season and is aiming for even more before she graduates.

A Standout Performer and Team Leader

Schiller has played varsity volleyball at Hart since her freshman year. She credits her coach and team for creating opportunities to succeed defensively, explaining that the team’s system allows her to contribute a high number of digs. She is also recognized for her leadership on the court, serving as one of the team captains. Schiller describes herself as a vocal and encouraging presence, noting that her role as an encourager has evolved since her freshman year when she was quieter and more reserved.

Her achievements have not gone unnoticed outside the school. Based on statistics logged on Max Prep Digs, Schiller has been recognized as first in Michigan and finished as high as sixth in the nation for career digs at one point, later ending among the nation’s top eight.

Balancing Athletics, Academics, and College Goals

In addition to her volleyball accomplishments, Schiller maintains a strong academic record, reporting a GPA of 3.87 while taking Advanced Placement classes. She intends to pursue college volleyball after graduation and is in contact with several college programs.

Focus on Team Success

Looking ahead, Schiller hopes her team can win conference, district, and potentially state titles in her final season. She notes that the Pirates are ranked in the top ten statewide in their division, contributing to optimism for a strong postseason run. Schiller emphasizes the importance of staying focused and hardworking, regardless of the team’s ranking, and attributes her continued motivation and positive attitude to her faith, teammates, coaches, and family.

Hart Football Player Keaghan Monroe Named Athlete of the Week

September 11, 2026

Hart High School Senior Honored for Performance and Leadership

Hart High School senior Keaghan Monroe has been recognized as Athlete of the Week, drawing attention for his commitment both on and off the football field. Monroe, who plays running back on offense and outside linebacker on defense for the Pirates, is regarded for his dedication, leadership, and influence among teammates, especially younger players.

Football Focus and Team Culture

Monroe has concentrated on football throughout high school, noting the sport’s significance in his family and personal life. He highlighted how the team’s culture, promoted by the coaching staff, has been a driving force in fostering teamwork and resilience, emphasizing support among players and learning from mistakes.

As the Pirates entered their third game of the season with a 2-0 record, Monroe discussed the excitement of playing at home and the positive impact of community support. He described mentoring younger team members and participating in youth-focused events, seeing these as opportunities to inspire and build unity within the program.

Academic Excellence

Balancing athletics with academics, Monroe reported maintaining an approximate 3.8 GPA and expressed pride in being a student-athlete. He identified history as his favorite subject and stressed the importance of responsibility and respect in the classroom.

Community Engagement

Beyond football, Monroe and the team engage in community service, including organizing youth nights, participating in veteran events, and volunteering for local cleanups. He credited the supportive environment of Hart Public Schools and the local community as key factors in his personal and athletic development.

Looking Ahead

Planning for the future, Monroe intends to pursue a career in welding and has gained relevant experience through a career tech center and a local welding shop. He cited a long-standing interest in cars and fabrication as motivation for this path.

Reflecting on his football career, Monroe recalled a significant moment during his sophomore year when he scored a decisive touchdown against a rival school, viewing it as a memorable highlight. He expressed gratitude for his recognition as Athlete of the Week, attributing his success to hard work, team culture, and community backing.

Hart Cross Country Runner Silas Ackley Named Athlete of the Week

September 4, 2026

Silas Ackley Recognized for Athletic Achievements

Silas Ackley, a junior at Hart High School, has been named Athlete of the Week for his accomplishments as a cross country runner. As an active member of the Pirates’ cross country team, Ackley has participated in the sport since middle school and has continued running competitively throughout his high school career.

Family Influence and Athletic Background

Ackley credits his interest and endurance in running to his family, noting that many relatives are runners and that group runs are a common activity. With a large extended family living nearby, Ackley often trains with his cousins, drawing motivation from both older and younger family members.

Team Experience and Goals

At Hart High School, Ackley appreciates the close-knit nature of the cross country team and values the camaraderie and support among teammates. He sees himself as a leader, encouraging team members during workouts and difficult training sessions. Ackley aims to help his team maintain a competitive standing, working towards qualifying for the state meet and achieving top individual finishes.

Academic Balance and Interests

In addition to his athletic pursuits, Ackley maintains strong academic performance, favoring mathematics as his preferred subject. He also enjoys playing sports such as pickleball and ping-pong and lists gaming as a hobby.

Aiming for Improvement

Ackley reported a personal record of 16:16 in cross country and has set a goal to run under 16 minutes by the end of the season, with hopes of earning recognition at the state level.

Advice for Aspiring Runners

He encourages younger students interested in running to stay determined, remain consistent in their training, and seek motivation from others to achieve their goals. Ackley emphasizes the importance of dedication, especially through summer training and days without formal practice.