Kingsport, Tennessee, September 20, 2025
News Summary
Dobyns-Bennett High School in Kingsport, Tennessee has recently celebrated notable achievements in sports and academics. The school’s volleyball team claimed a thrilling victory against Tennessee High School, featuring standout performances and a nail-biting fifth set. In academics, the school ranked 19th in the Niche 2025 Best High Schools in Tennessee. Additionally, senior Taylor Davis made history as the school’s first female pilot heading to the United States Air Force Academy. The varsity athletics facility, Buck Van Huss Dome, has also undergone significant renovations, enhancing the experience for students and fans alike.
Kingsport, Tennessee –
Dobyns-Bennett High School recently celebrated a series of accomplishments in sports, academics, and facility upgrades, underscoring the school’s commitment to excellence. In an exhilarating high school volleyball match, the Dobyns-Bennett volleyball team edged out their rivals, the Lady Vikings from Tennessee High School (THS), with a nail-biting finish, featuring scores of 25-23, 19-25, 25-17, 17-25, and an intense 16-14 in the fifth set.
The match was marked by impressive comebacks, particularly as the Lady Vikings fought back from being down 11-3 and 14-8 in the pivotal fifth set. Key player Zoey Phillips showcased exceptional skill, delivering seven consecutive service points that swung momentum in THS’s favor. Ashton Blair also emerged as a crucial factor with three critical kills, including one that tied the set at 14. The final point was claimed through a combined block by teammates Karah Smith and Faith Hayes, culminating in an exciting victory.
Individually, Ashton Blair recorded a double-double with 14 kills and 11 digs, while Zoey Phillips contributed eight kills, four aces, and 11 digs. Faith Hayes added to the victory with seven kills and six digs, and senior setter Bree Adams excelled with 28 assists and 16 digs. Addy Gentry made significant contributions as well, recording 23 digs throughout the match.
In addition to the sporting achievements, Dobyns-Bennett High School has also been recognized academically, ranking 19th on the Niche 2025 Best High Schools in Tennessee list. The school received an overall grade of “A,” showcasing its dedication to providing quality education and attracting residents to the Kingsport area.
Among the academic achievements, senior Taylor Davis made history as Dobyns-Bennett’s first female pilot set to attend the United States Air Force Academy. Taylor has distinguished herself with a weighted GPA of 4.6 and is actively involved in the Girls Lacrosse Team and Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC). Her passion for aviation began at age 14, and she obtained her private pilot’s license after attending the Air Force JROTC Flight Academy for eight weeks last summer.
Moreover, the school’s facilities have undergone significant renovations. The newly upgraded Buck Van Huss Dome now boasts new gym floors, improved seating, and various amenities, all aimed at enhancing the athletic experience while honoring over 50 years of tradition within the Dobyns-Bennett Athletics program. The grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the renovated dome is scheduled to coincide with the Dobyns-Bennett homecoming basketball games next Tuesday.
Summary of Dobyns-Bennett’s Recent Highlights
- Volleyball Victory: Dobyns-Bennett defeated THS in a thrilling match, making a comeback in the fifth set.
- Academic Recognition: The school ranked 19th among the Best High Schools in Tennessee.
- Historic Achievement: Taylor Davis became the first female pilot from the school to head to the Air Force Academy.
- Facility Renovation: The Buck Van Huss Dome has been renovated, with an opening ceremony on the horizon.
Upcoming Events
The grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the renovated Buck Van Huss Dome will take place during the Dobyns-Bennett homecoming basketball games next Tuesday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Dobyns-Bennett High School volleyball match against THS?
The final score was Dobyns-Bennett 3, THS 2.
What ranking did Dobyns-Bennett High School achieve in the Niche 2025 Best High Schools in Tennessee?
Dobyns-Bennett High School ranked 19th and earned an overall grade of “A.”
Who is Taylor Davis?
Taylor Davis is a senior and the first female pilot from Dobyns-Bennett heading to the United States Air Force Academy.
What is new in the Buck Van Huss Dome renovation?
The renovated Buck Van Huss Dome features new gym floors, upgraded seating, and various other amenities.
Key Features of Dobyns-Bennett Celebrations
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Volleyball Match Result | Dobyns-Bennett won against THS with a close score of 3-2. |
| School Ranking | 19th in Niche 2025 Best High Schools in Tennessee with an “A” grade. |
| Historic Achievement | Taylor Davis is the first female pilot from the school heading to the U.S. Air Force Academy. |
| Facility Renovation | Upgraded Buck Van Huss Dome with new gym floors and seating. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Leadership Changes at Holston View and Abingdon Elementary Schools
Dobyns-Bennett Buck Van Huss Dome Reopens in Kingsport
Devastation Strikes as Hurricane Helene Leaves a Mark on Southeastern States
Johnson City Readies for Dobyns-Bennett vs Science Hill Rivalry
Additional Resources
- WCYB Sports
- Wikipedia: Dobyns-Bennett High School
- WCYB News Local
- Google Search: Dobyns-Bennett High School
- WCYB 5 Star Students
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Dobyns-Bennett High School
- WCYB News Local
- Google Scholar: Dobyns-Bennett High School renovation
- WCYB High School Sports
- Google News: Dobyns-Bennett Volleyball
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
