Emotions were running high as the Concordia women's volleyball team came together to celebrate Senior Night, not only because it was a significant event but also because it was the last outing for the squad's favorite seniors, Kawehi Chang and Kennedy Farley. 

Playing for Concordia has been a memorable experience for sophomore Kayden Croy, especially with her closest friends by her side. “It means a lot,” said Croy when asked what it meant to be a Golden Eagle. “Concordia is a special place, so I’m really grateful to represent our school every time I play. Getting to play alongside my best friends makes it even better.”

Families gathered in the stands to cheer on their athletes, and the enthusiasm of Senior Night was evident. With the special vibe in the gym, Croy said, “The environment was great. It’s always so exciting to see people in the stands and know how much support we have. We all love to make our families proud.” 

However, for Croy, the most emotional part of the night was celebrating her seniors, particularly Chang, who she has come to see as both a teammate and a mentor.

“My emotions were high leading up to Senior Night,” she said. “It’s bittersweet because we, as the younger girls, are so proud of Kawehi, but we know how much she’ll be missed. We got her gifts and decorated the locker room to show our appreciation.”

When asked how it felt to see her senior move on, Croy’s tone in her voice began to lower. “It’s so sad,” she said. “We are so proud of her, and I’m grateful for every moment I’ve shared with her. It’s definitely going to be strange without her next season.”

Senior Night was the culmination of four years of growth, difficulties and innumerable memories for Chang. The senior from Oahu, Hawaii, thought about what it meant to play for the school after her adventure at Concordia, which has been a combination of success and tenacity. “To me, playing for the school wasn’t just about competing as an athlete,” said Chang. “It was about representing the community and school, and giving thanks to everyone who has supported me along the way, coaches, family and friends.”

Chang admitted that getting ready for Senior Night was an emotional experience. “As a senior, it didn’t feel real that my athletic career would come to an end on this day,” she said. “The team decorated the locker room and gym, and they even gave a gift basket to each senior. It made the night even more special, as I could feel the love and support from everyone.”

Having her family in the crowd added an extra layer of meaning to her on the last game as a Golden Eagle. “Having my family in the crowd made the night even more emotional. To have my biggest supporters there for such a big milestone in my life was so special,” said Chang, with gratitude.

“My family walked with me, my parents, little brother, my grandparents, aunt, and uncle,” Chang continued. “They’ve been there every step of my journey, and having them there as I celebrated this milestone was a reminder of how important they’ve been to my experience. I’m forever grateful for them.”

This evening served as a celebration of all that the two seniors, Chang and Farley, had achieved. A reminder of the friendships and personal development they had acquired in addition to their victories.

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