Great Bend Panther Rachel Panzer signed a letter of intent to play volleyball for Garden City Community College. She’s the daughter of Shawn and Amy Panzer.

The Panthers finished 20-11 and qualified for the 5A state tournament with wins over Salina Central 25-19, 25-22 and Hays High 25-20, 25-19. Maize South beat the Panthers 25-12, 25-11, 25-14 at the 5A state tournament.

“I will remember my volleyball career at GBHS because of all the love and support I had from my teammates, coaches, parents and fans,” Panzer said.

First-team All-Western Athletic Panzer led all hitters with 679 kills, 41 blocks, 630 digs, 706 serve receives and 59 ace serves maintaining a 96.2 serving percentage. Panzer was named Maxpreps Player of the Match in the Panthers’ substate win over Salina Central.  

“Our girls knew that when we needed the ball to hit the wood, the ball went to Rachel,” said Great Bend coach Shelly Duvall. “Great Bend volleyball was blessed to have her for four years. She led by example and played with heart. Rachel was our silent power. Her presence was very evident on the court.”

Duvall said Panzer will help Garden City.

“I wish her all the best at Garden City next year. She will be great for coach Patrick Hiltz.”