The past and future of the Thorsby volleyball program came together on one court during the inaugural alumni game on Saturday.

The match pitted the current varsity squad in three games against a team comprised of former Thorsby volleyball players.

“It is important for the younger players to realize that Rebel volleyball is an experience that stays with you past high school,” Thorsby senior Lauren Wyatt said. “I plan on coming back to help coach the teams as much as I can.”

Thorsby head coach Leighsa Robinson held a similar event over the years at Jemison, and looks to start a new tradition as she takes over the reigns of the volleyball program as a full-time member of the staff at Thorsby.

“I’ve had a lot of success with it over the years, and it’s something that I always look forward to,” Robinson said. “This is a sisterhood for life.”

Krista Cleckley, Kaitlyn Langston, Jennifer Lehner, Brittany Maddox, Jacquelyn Holcomb and Alisha Littleton made up the alumni team and represented graduating classes from 2007 to 2015.

“These ladies have paved the way for the current team,” Robinson said. “It is because of them that volleyball continues to grow in Thorsby.”

Robinson joined in the fun as a member of the alumni squad, and found herself in the unique position of facing off against the team that she usually shares a bench with.

“We’re all considered old at this point,” said Alisha Littleton, class of 2009. “I may not be able to move tomorrow, but we still came out here and had a good time.”

According to Littleton, she had not stepped on a volleyball court since graduation, but knew that she wanted to take part in the event as soon as she received the news from Robinson.

“It gives the girls an understanding that you can make a difference even after graduation,” Littleton said. “They’ll always have the opportunity to be role models.”

The event allowed the Rebels with a chance to unwind and have some fun before they immerse themselves in the grind of the season.

Thorsby opens the season with a tournament in Montgomery on Tuesday.

“Volleyball and the friendships that I’ve made have helped shape who I am and has given me a confidence that I didn’t always have,” Wyatt said.