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Pungo Christian Academy senior Melony Grace Hodges was part of the team that won the NCISSA 1A volleyball state title last weekend. The middle hitter and Swan Quarter native has been part of the program all four years of high school. She is a Beta Club member and part of Future Farmers of America (FFA.

 

1. What is the coolest part of winning the first volleyball state championship in school history?

 

Melony Grace: It was an amazing week at school after we won. It brought a group of girls who were already close, even closer together off the floor. Winning showed us the value of hard work in practice and it taught us that good teamwork can take a group a long way.

 

2. PCA defeated conference rival The Albemarle School from Elizabeth City, 3-0, to win the title. At what point were you pretty sure you were going to win?

 

Melony Grace: We were confident without being cocky when we gathered as a group long before the match. One of our team grandparents made us fruit, cheese biscuits and brownies for our team meal. We laughed and sang songs before we got serious and focused on the match. I knew then we were going to play well.

 

3. How did losing at Lee County in last year’s semi-finals motivate your group to win it all this year.

 

Melony Grace: We are all very disappointed as we walked off the floor, but the seniors told us it was our turn next (this) year. Even though they’ve moved on, they’ve been to several games this season and some were there Saturday. It feels like they are still part of our team and the championship is theirs also.

 

4. What is your favorite class at PCA?

 

Melony Grace: Global Issues, because we learn about world events and talk about both sides of the issue. We don’t really take a side; we just discuss different points of view. I didn’t follow the issue of college athletes earning money until that class. It’s interesting to hear both sides of the discussion.

 

5. What are your plans after graduation?

 

Melony Grace: I’m planning on majoring in biology at East Carolina University with a plan to go to dental school there. I’ve always been interested in doing something medical and my dentist, Dr. David Elliott, in Belhaven has encouraged me. I don’t think I would mind poking around in people’s mouths all day. I look at it as a chance to help people.