As a senior, Sadie Backus played her final volleyball game for Mingus when the Mingus Union High School defeated Moon Valley 3-2 on Nov. 4. But while that was her final high school volleyball game, Backus has more volleyball in her future.
On Friday, Nov. 13, Backus signed her letter of intent to play volleyball at Yavapai College in Prescott next year. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the ceremony in the Mingus gym was somewhat limited. Still, a number of people, including Backus’ family, friends and teammates on the Marauders volleyball team were on hand to see her officially commit to play for the Roughriders.
Backus was thankful for those that they could come out.
“To see all of the support that people have been giving me and continue to give me, it means a lot,” Backus said. “Especially since I’m going on to college. It feels good to be loved.”
Backus was a strong libero for the Marauders in her senior season. She received a total of 657 serves and recorded 27 digs. Both totals easily led the team. In fact, Backus’ 27 digs was exactly half of her team’s total. She also recorded 155 total serves and notched 21 aces, both of which were second on the team.
Letter of intent signings are of course big days for the students committing to play in college, but also their family members. Sadie’s parents Jo and Chad Backus both shared pride in what their daughter had accomplished.
“This is what she’s wanted for a long time,” Jo said. “She’s worked hard for it and she did it. It’s awesome.”
“Sadie’s worked a lot of years and spent a lot of time practicing, playing and working hard,” Chad said. “She’s very disciplined in everything that she does. She deserves to be recognized. It’s awesome. We’re proud of her.”
In the fall of 2019 — the most recent volleyball season at Yavapai College due to the COVID-19 pandemic — the Roughriders went 20-6 overall and went 10-3 in conference play to finish second in the Arizona Community College Athletic Conference. In the postseason, they won the National Junior College Athletic Association Region 1 Championship and fell to Hill College in Texas in the District D Championship match.
Backus is excited about the opportunity to play for a team with that track record, especially given the proximity to her family.
“It’s a great school and a great volleyball program,” Backus said. “And it’s close to home; I can see my family.”
Both of her parents were also excited about the idea of having their daughter close and getting to go see her games.
In all of the excitement that comes with signing a letter of intent, Backus also found time to thank Hunter Tibbs — who coached the Marauders during Backus’ senior season — as well as the other coaches she’s worked with through her years playing volleyball.
“Thanks to my coach for helping me get here and all of the coaches that I’ve had for their support,” Backus said. “And thanks to all of the people at Mingus who have supported me and helped the recognition happen. Thank you to my parents who are so supportive of me and keep me working hard.”
