Digging
Deep

INTERVIEW: BLAIZIA THOMISON
PHOTOGRAPHY: JEFF REED

Raiderettes Senior
Anchors Defense,
Balances Schedule

For Moore County High School senior Whitney Fanning, the libero jersey isn’t just a uniform – it’s a responsibility. As the varsity libero for the Raiderettes volleyball team, she knows the importance of her role.

“This position is crucial for the team because liberos are always the ones digging the hard balls and sacrificing themselves no matter what,” Fanning explains.

That relentless defense has quickly become her trademark. Only in her second year playing volleyball, she has already earned the respect of her teammates for her energy, focus, and ability to read the game.

“My focus during the game is usually watching who hits where most often, who serves well, and where they serve,” she says. “But I also try to be in the moment and watch body language to see what they will do.”

A Multi-Sport Athlete and Leader

Volleyball isn’t her only passion. Fanning has played softball for more than a decade and continues to excel on the diamond. Beyond athletics, she is active in the Student Council, 4-H, Honor Club, National Honor Society, and the Pep Club – and is also exploring Cross Country.

“Both softball and volleyball are mentally tough sports,” she notes. “If you get in your head, you’re beat. That’s why I try to encourage my teammates when they’re feeling down, because when one goes down, we all do.”

Though her heart is split between the two sports, she believes each offers something special.

“I have never been on a more encouraging team, and I love the energy volleyball gives off,” she says. “But softball has always been there. I don’t think I can choose between the two.”

A Moment to Remember

One highlight of her senior volleyball season came in a hard-fought match against Franklin County on Monday, Aug. 25.

“My favorite volleyball moment so far this year has been when we beat Franklin County,” she contends, referencing the Raiderettes' 3-2 win. “I was so proud of all of the girls for sticking it out for all five sets. They really pushed through and made me very proud.”

Classroom and Career Goals

Away from the court and field, Fanning said her favorite subject is art – thanks mainly to the friends in the class – but she admitted she has a soft spot for math when it’s on her schedule. Her least favorite subject? Economics.

After graduation, she plans to attend Motlow State Community College before transferring to either MTSU or Tennessee Tech. While she hasn’t finalized a career path, she’s leaning toward dentistry.

Inspired by Family, Focused on Legacy

Her inspiration on the court comes from her cousin Macie Cashion, who played libero before her.

“She taught me so much, and I strive to be like her,” Fanning says. “She was the best and never gave up on me.”

As for how she hopes to be remembered, Fanning’s answer reflects the leadership she already shows.

“I want to be remembered as someone who always encourages everyone on the team,” she says. “I want to be known as someone who is always dependable and kind to everyone.”