Volleyball team to honor Delaney Giles

Editor's note: Students representing the Monroeville High School volleyball team, under the guidance of head coach Kendra Snook, came together to honor the late Delaney Giles, 17. MONROEVILLE — Five years may have passed, but for the friends, family, teammates and community members who knew Delaney Giles, it often feels like she is still right here. This month, the Monroeville High School volleyball program will, once again, come together to honor Delaney — a member of the Monroeville High School Class of 2022 — with its annual Delaney Match. Delaney passed away five years ago this September from complications resulting from a car accident. She was just beginning her young life, but in the years she was given, she made an impact that continues to be felt throughout the Monroeville community. A three-sport athlete, Delaney was passionate about athletics and fiercely proud to represent Monroeville. But those who knew her will tell you that being an athlete was only one small part of who she was. She was a daughter, a friend, a teammate and someone who seemed to carry laughter with her wherever she went. Delaney had a way of putting a smile on the faces of those around her and making people feel like they belonged. Her energy, her laugh and her love for the people in her life left an impression that has not faded. That is why, each September, the Monroeville volleyball program chooses to remember — not simply the way Delaney's life ended but the way she lived. The tradition will continue on Saturday when the Lady Eagles welcome Elyria Open Door for this year's Delaney Match at the Monroeville Athletic Complex, 101 West St., Monroeville. The varsity contest will be a special rematch of the 2025 regional finals, adding another meaningful chapter to the day. The morning will begin with the Reserve Eagles facing Margaretta at 9 a.m. followed by the junior varsity match against Elyria Open Door at 10 a.m. The varsity match will follow. The Monroeville volleyball program is inviting the entire community to be part of the celebration. Fans are encouraged to wear purple in Delaney's memory and help fill the gym with a sea of purple in her honor. There will also be raffle baskets, a 50/50 drawing and other items available for purchase, with proceeds going toward an important new goal, establishing a scholarship in Delaney's name. The scholarship will be another way to carry Delaney's legacy forward and allow the qualities she embodied — friendship, passion, determination, love of family and dedication to athletics — to continue making a difference in the lives of Monroeville students. For those who knew Delaney, September is a month filled with memories. For the Monroeville volleyball program, the Delaney Match has become a tradition that ensures those memories continue to be shared with future generations. Five years later, her teammates still remember her laughter. Her friends still remember her smile. Her family continues to carry her love with them. And her community continues to remember the Eagle she was. The Monroeville volleyball family invites everyone to come out on Sept. 19, wear purple, support the Eagles and help celebrate the life and legacy of Delaney Giles.