Winter Park defeated defending champion Tampa Plant in a thrilling five-set match to secure the Class 7A girls volleyball state championship at Polk State College. The Wildcats, led by Hall of Fame coach Stephanie Gibson, showcased resilience, winning the final set 16-14 after dropping the first. With this victory, Winter Park clinches its sixth state title, fueled by standout performances from senior Emily Forness and junior Isabel Umpierre. The team's strategy and determination were evident, overcoming a previous loss to Plant in last year's final.

By the Numbers
  • Winter Park finished the season 28-1, with only one loss to a top Kentucky team.
  • Emily Forness recorded 26 kills and 15 digs in the championship match.
Yes, But

Despite the victory, the match highlighted Plant's strengths, particularly in their offensive capabilities, demonstrating the tight competition in the 7A division.

State of Play
  • Winter Park reached the finals after defeating Kissimmee Osceola in a close semifinal match.
  • The Wildcats had previously lost to Plant in the 2023 championship but had beaten them twice in the current season.
What's Next

With this win, Winter Park aims to build on their success, focusing on continued improvement and setting sights on future titles as they retain their strong roster of players.

Bottom Line

Winter Park's triumphant win highlights the importance of resilience and strategy, marking a significant achievement for the program and solidifying Coach Gibson's legacy in high school volleyball.