Kendal Crawford tried to keep it to herself.
The senior outside hitter wanted to be a leader and a role model for the younger players in Warren’s program. She wanted nothing to hold her back in her final season.
So until three weeks ago, Crawford didn’t reveal that the shoulder injury that affected her during the abbreviated spring season still bothered her.
“My shoulder has been an issue in my athletic career since I could remember,” she said. “There were many points during our (spring) season last year where I was unable to play. With this in mind, I attempted to hide my injury this year for as long as possible. I didn’t miss any games this season, but mentally I was not all there because of the constant pain I was in.
“Once I finally came clean about it and began taking the rehab steps I needed, I saw a huge improvement in my play and confidence.”
Crawford said she was diagnosed with biceps tendinitis and “a possible tear in my rotator cuff.” She said it has prevented her from seeking an opportunity to play in college, but she’s happy to be able to play against the Blue Devils’ opponents.
Crawford’s all-around skills are reflected in the numbers. She ranks first on the team in aces (46) and blocks (21), is third in kills (121) and also has 21 blocks, 157 digs and 22 assists.
“I finally became the player I was before the injury,” Crawford said. “I missed being that ‘it’ player. I’m very grateful for my coaches supporting me through it all.”
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Warren coach Yun Chen said Crawford’s impact can’t be measured solely by statistics and wins. She contributed behind the scenes with her leadership and by playing numerous positions — outside hitter, middle hitter and right-side — for the Blue Devils (17-9), who have won five matches in a row.
“Kendal has been our leader from the summer until now,” Chen said. “She does a lot of things for the program and the team. At the beginning of season, even with her shoulder hurting, she said she would play any position to help the team.
“She’s willing to do anything for the success of the team. She’s such a great leader, for the varsity team and also taking care of the younger levels. That’s been a highlight for us coaches to see her development. She’s starting to get the confidence back from her shoulder. She looks so much more athletic, which will only benefit us because she’s now a well-rounded player.”
Chen said the combination of Crawford and junior setter GabriElle Brewer have helped push the Blue Devils (17-9) toward the 20-win mark. Warren has won 19 or more matches for eight consecutive seasons, not taking into account the spring season.
“Kendal and GabriElle know each other really well, and GabriElle really wants to do well for Kendal and this group,” he said. “We’re trying to accomplish some goals. Kendal has been leading the team and held the team accountable, which has been nice to see. As coaches, we let some players take care of some things. She’s been going above and beyond, helping make it easier for the coaches.”
Brewer, who recorded her 1,000th career assist last week, said the Blue Devils are clicking on all cylinders. She has 471 assists, 142 digs and 45 aces this season.
“I think this team has a lot of potential,” she said. “We’ve been working hard, and we’ve really came together as a team on and off the court. Everyone cheers for each other, and everyone has a very positive outlook on this season. We’re on a winning streak right now, and we’re working to win conference and to play well in regionals.”
Bobby Narang is a freelance reporter for the News-Sun.