For two of Chatham-Kent Secondary School’s standout athletes, volleyball has been more than just a sport—it’s been a community, a family, and a foundation for the future.
Kenzie Lahey and Rowan Agar, both decorated varsity volleyball players, are taking their talents to the next level. Lahey, who graduated last year in 2024 from CKSS, will be attending Queen’s University, where she’ll pursue a Bachelor of Economics while continuing her volleyball journey. Agar, graduating this year, has committed to Sheridan College, where she will study Athletic Therapy while competing at the varsity level. Both athletes leave behind an impressive high school legacy: two-time OFSAA AAA participants, double SWOSSAA and LKSSAA champions, and consistent honour roll students throughout their four years. But while their talent and work ethic have been key to their success, neither would hesitate to credit the village that helped raise them—their coaches, mentors, and the close-knit LKDSB athletic community.
Behind every strong athlete is a team of dedicated coaches, and in this case, the bond is even deeper. Every coach who has guided Lahey and Agar through their CKSS volleyball careers is an LKDSB graduate themselves—a testament to the lasting impact of high school athletics in this community.
Coaches Mel Smyth and Jenna Scrimshaw (JMSS graduates), Elish Smith (CCI graduate), and Garrett St. Pierre and Cory Lahey (CKSS graduates) have all walked the same halls as their athletes, once competing on the same courts, under the same banners. Now, they’ve returned, passing on their knowledge, leadership, and passion for the game.
“As an athlete you take from the cookie jar” says Elish Smith. “And we all need to fill the cookie jar back up as volunteers and coaches in the community.”
This unique cycle of mentorship has shaped countless athletes, reinforcing not only strong technical skills but also values of hard work, perseverance, and teamwork. It’s a support system that extends beyond the game, guiding students toward success both on and off the court.
“Volleyball has always been a huge part of my life, but my passion for the game truly took off during my time at JMSS” explains Jenna Scrimshaw. “Returning to coach there after university felt like coming home. Three years on the sidelines with Coach Jim Smyth led me to coaching with the Chatham Ballhawks VBC for five years—until my daughters arrived and became my newest ‘teammates.’ For the past seven years, I’ve had the privilege of coaching Senior Girls Volleyball at McNaughton Ave Public School, and I plan to continue for many more. To me, coaching isn’t just about the game; it’s about inspiring growth, building teamwork, and passing on a lifelong love for the sport.”
For Lahey and Agar, the transition to varsity volleyball is the next chapter in a journey that began within the walls of LKDSB schools. Their time at CKSS has prepared them not just as athletes, but as scholars and leaders.
As they step onto their new courts at Queen’s and Sheridan, Lahey and Agar will carry with them more than just skill and experience—they’ll carry the legacy of LKDSB’s strong, supportive athletic community. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll find their way back to the sidelines, coaching the next generation of LKDSB athletes.