BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — Before getting down to business April 14, the Martin County Board of Education paused to celebrate a big win for young athletes.

Superintendent Larry James recognized Eden Elementary’s A, B and C volleyball teams for sweeping the county championships. He presented each player with a certificate and took a moment to highlight the importance of recognizing student achievement.

“This is the best part of the meeting,” James said. “We get to recognize kids.”

He also extended his appreciation to the parents in attendance.

“They get to do all the things that they’re doing because of you,” he said.

James began by honoring the A-team, which defeated Inez in three sets to secure the championship. Team members are Sara McCoy, Paige Stafford, Braylee Horn, Martha Maynard, Kylie Wright and Carlee Stafford.

Next up was the B-team, which clinched its title in two sets against Inez. Players include Taytum Jennings, McKenna Mills, Dashia Mills, Aubrey Wilson, Destiny Litton, Chloe Johnson, Remy Williams and Isabella Vinson.

Rounding out the celebration, James recognized Eden’s C-team, which also topped Inez in a three-set match. Team members are Miranda Cline, Brooklyn Maynard, Juliana Horn, Harper Howell, Chloe Maynard, Jaselle Deskins, Bailey Messer, Layla Horn, Arianna Guthrie, Blair Howard, Seraphina Fraley and Jaslynn Staton.