Destini Jones is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication student assigned to cover Moon Valley High School for AZPreps365.com. 

After a standout season that pushed her past her career highs, junior outside hitter Enedina Virgil Macey appeared as one of the top leaders for  Moon Valley varsity volleyball's 25-’26 season.

Before she was collecting kills and motivating her teammates on game days, Macey was a young athlete trying to find a sport that fit her best. 

Macey tested the water in dance first, but quickly concluded that it was not for her. 

“It wasn't really my thing because I have two left feet,” Macey said with a laugh. “I was like, 'Dang, I should try volleyball’ because all the girls were trying volleyball.”

The junior outside hitter, Macey, started playing at 7, and she liked it right away.

Her journey started at the YMCA, which encouraged her to play a year of club volleyball. 

Those experiences helped her earn her spot on varsity her freshman year. That has set the tone for the rest of her high school volleyball journey. 

Now, Macey is a leader for her team on and off the court. Her teammates describe her as a motivator, a leader, and someone her team counts on. 

For the ‘25-’26 season, she has earned three Player of the Match awards, bringing her total to six across all three seasons. 

She ended the season with 159 kills, which is 56 more than her record high last year.

“My proudest moment this season is definitely my kills,” Macey said. “I have gotten so much better thanks to one coach.”

Head coach Christy Wiley said that Macey has become a player her teammates look up to. 

Wiley said. “I think she has a high skill level, so people look up to her.”

The coach noticed how Macey’s abilities and confidence have shaped her into who she is today. 

“She has matured a lot,” Wiley said. “She’s less hard on herself now, but she’s always been willing to work and do whatever I’ve asked.”

Macey said she understands the responsibility that comes with being a leader, especially when her team needs her the most. 

“During tough games and practices, I just keep them hyped,” Macey said. “I just make jokes to keep them sane because it's just so hard to keep yourself in the game.”

One of Macey’s teammates, Jah’laya Rowe, said that Macey brings energy and a clear understanding of the game. 

“She can read people, and if someone’s off, she’s there,” Rowe said.

Rowe also recalled a moment when Macey’s encouragement helped her boost her confidence. 

“During tryouts, I wasn’t giving it 100%,” and she made sure I was giving it 110%,” Rowe said.

“She saw it and pushed me in a good way.”

Macey embraces her leadership role for the Rockets. 

“I'm so proud of myself because I didn't think I'd ever get this far,” Macey said.