In a sport where highlight-reel spikes and diving digs draw most of the attention, the middle-man in the offense often goes unnoticed. But it’s the second touch that may be the most important, with a skilled and knowledgeable setter needed to run the attack.

That’s the role junior Haley Templeton played for Chattahoochee this season, spreading out 731 assists across 44 games as one of the state’s premier setters.

“The setter is the quarterback of your team and it is very important to not only have a talented one, but a smart one,” said Chattahoochee volleyball coach Jennie Blevins of Templeton, who committed to play at the University of Miami prior to her junior season. .

“Haley has tons of court knowledge and also knows the game very well. She is the floor captain in games and played a huge role in helping the girls stay together and keep their cool.”

As a captain, Templeton saved some of her best games of the season for when her team needed her most in the state playoffs.

Entering the Class AAAAAA state tournament as the No. 4 seed from 6AAAAAA, Templeton’s 40 assists and 19 kills helped the Cougars upend Region 7AAAAAA champion North Gwinnett in four sets.

One round later against Newnan, Templeton posted 19 assists, 10 kills, eight digs and six aces in a three set victory.

“She is a great leader and really stepped up to help the team,” said Blevins.