TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO-WAWV) — The Barrett family has had a run of more than 50 consecutive years of playing and coaching high school sports in the Wabash Valley.
However, the playing side of that may be coming to an end soon. Alex Barrett is a senior on the Terre Haute North volleyball team. She says her family has been a constant in Wabash Valley athletics since her grandfather Jay became the head football coach at Sholty in 1970.
“Being part of such a big, athletic family, it’s really been a privilege because people know your name and people treat you a little bit differently,” Barrett said. “I really try to carry myself with more respect than others and keep my head held high.”
Her aunts, uncles, cousins, and siblings have kept the legacy going since then. Her father, Terre Haute Police Chief Kevin Barrett, says that a Barrett playing sports was as common as getting up and brushing your teeth.
“Seeing it come to an end for her, and doing that through her siblings and her cousins as well, it always comes to an end for the next level,” Barrett said. “That’s always a challenge for any parent that has kids in sports, at some point it just comes to an end and it’s just a sad time. Sad but grateful time.”
Alex says that having coaching in her family has taught her leadership, accountability, and how to battle through the ups and downs this season.
“There’s been some ups and downs and some challenges throughout the season, but I think that’s pushed our girls harder, and we’re just getting ready for sectionals now.”
Barrett and the Patriots volleyball team will play with their season on the line on October 19 at 1 p.m.
