Keira Rosenmarkle is wrapping up her senior season at Union Pines, where she and her volleyball teammates have earned a fourth seed ranking in the state playoffs. This season, she celebrated reaching one of the biggest milestones of her career. Having played since eighth grade, she recently hit the 1,000-kill mark, a rare achievement for any high school player.
“The achievement feels like validation of all the hard work I’ve put in over the years,” Keira said. “Overcoming injuries and doubts to reach this point really boosted my confidence.”
This is Keira’s first year at Union Pines after transferring from Seaforth, where she played in the state championship last season, still one of her favorite memories.
“Going into the state finals my junior year was a big moment for me,” Keira said. “The adrenaline I had and being able to play in the NC State Colosseum was really fun.”
Now, she’s focused on helping the Vikings make a deep playoff run. “We’ve done great in conference play this year and defeated some tough opponents,” Keira said. “I really believe in this team. We have what it takes to go far.”
Video by Curtis Self/Sandhills Sentinel.
“Keira has been an amazing addition to the Union Pines Volleyball program,” said Coach Felicia Marks. “Coming in as a senior is a huge challenge, and Kei has fit right in with the girls! She is a great volleyball player who not only pushes herself but also pushes her teammates to be better every day. Keira is a great kid to be around and has brought her competitive spirit, positivity, and fun personality to our program! I am lucky to have the opportunity to coach her this season, and I can’t wait to see what else she can accomplish, not only this season but in her future!”
While volleyball is her focus this fall, Keira is also an accomplished wrestler, a sport she has competed in for eight years. “I love volleyball because it’s fast-paced and lets me meet so many new people,” she said. “But wrestling helped shape me into the competitor I am today.”
Her dedication to both sports has earned her impressive accolades. Among her biggest achievements are winning the Junior Olympics for wrestling at age 13 and earning a full scholarship to play volleyball in college.
“My parents are my biggest supporters and have always been there for me,” Keira said. “They’ve jumped through hoops to make things work for me, so I can chase my dreams. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Keira leans on her faith and personal walk with God for guidance and comfort. Her favorite verse is Psalm 45:10.
“My relationship with God is what helps me stay balanced through everything: volleyball, school, and life. Each one has his or her highs and lows,” Keira explained. “There are days when everything’s going great, I’m playing well, keeping up with school, and feeling confident. But there are also days when I feel overwhelmed, unsure, or not good enough. In those moments, I lean into my faith.”
After graduation, Keira will continue her athletic and academic journey at Liberty University, where she’ll play volleyball and study criminal justice to become a criminal investigator. “I’ve always been drawn to criminal justice since middle school,” she said.
Feature photo: Keira Rosenmarkle proudly wears a Liberty University sweatshirt, where she is attending next year. Contributed photo.
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~Article by Curtis Self, a Sandhills Sentinel reporter and owner of Moore Daily Sports. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
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