Bullington helped Portland volleyball persevere

Portland struggled out of the gate in District 9-AAA volleyball play this season, dropping its first two matches.

However, the Lady Panthers found their stride soon thereafter, losing just four times in their final 22 matches to finish with a 24-11 record after a 3-1 loss to Ravenwood in the Class AAA sectional round.

Sophomore Marlayna Bullington had a lot to do with that success, finishing with 564 kills this season – an average of 4.4 per set – and 448 digs (3.5 per set).

Bullington’s efforts have earned her Co-Player of the Year honors on the All-Sumner County Volleyball Team.

Bullington recently discussed her season and other various topics. Her feedback is as follows:

What was this season like for you?

It was one of the best seasons I’ve had so far in my volleyball career. Our team was good. We were like a family. We had good coaching and tough practices.

What was one thing that helped you be successful this season?

Definitely our coaches pushing me to be a better hitter and defensive player.

Best memory from this season?

Probably when we came back from two games down in regionals (against Wilson Central) and came back to win. We were so happy to be together and celebrate that win.

Who has been your biggest influence in volleyball?

I’ve always looked up to Abby Akins (Sumner County Player of the Year the past two seasons), because she’s always been a big influence on me and our program as a whole.

Did you play any other sports when you were younger?

Yeah, I did gymnastics, I was on the swim team, and I played basketball, soccer, softball and volleyball.

Did you accomplish what you wanted to accomplish this season?

I got a lot better and I got pushed harder. It was a crazy ride that started at the beginning of the season. Towards the end, everything had just picked up. Our team came a long way from the beginning of the season. It was disappointing to lose (in the sectional round), but it was a good year.

Who did you look up to when you were younger?

I always looked up to my older sister Kaylee and my cousin, who played at Brentwood. They were always in the gym, so I was always in the gym with them, wanting to pass or pepper or whatever.

What is your favorite TV show?

I like “Grey’s Anatomy.” I try to watch it every week.

What are your college plans, and what do you want to study in college?

I would love to play in college, whether it’s sand volleyball or indoor. I really like Mercer (University). Otherwise, I’m pretty open-minded. I’d like to study something in the medical field, maybe physical therapy.

If you could write a letter to your eight-year-old self, what would you say?

Just to keep working hard and push for whatever you want to do when you’re older, and be the best you can be.