West Forsyth Star Piper Duckworth Commits to In-State Program

Piper Duckworth, a leading player for West Forsyth High School's volleyball team, committed on Jan. 10, 2026 to play at a college program within the state, a move that preserves local recruiting momentum and underscores Forsyth County's growing profile in high school athletics. Duckworth's on-court impact has been visible throughout the season, including a notable play during a Region 6-6A matchup Oct. 2 at Lambert where she tipped the ball over the net in traffic (Photo by Nicholas Sullivan).

The commitment signals an important transition for both Duckworth and the West Forsyth program. For the athlete, it means continuing her development against collegiate competition while remaining close to home, which can ease the logistical and financial pressures families face when student-athletes move out of state. For West Forsyth, the recruitment of a player who advanced to a college roster contributes to the program's credibility with prospective players, parents, and area coaches who monitor pathways from high school competition to the next level.

High school commitments like Duckworth's also influence local sports dynamics. Forsyth County schools compete in regional play that draws scouts and college recruiters, and the retention of talent within the state can strengthen recruiting relationships between local high schools and nearby colleges. That linkage may affect future scheduling, travel budgets, and community interest in matchups that serve as showcases for rising athletes.

Duckworth's visible performances this season, including her quick hands and net presence during Region 6-6A play, were part of the body of work that attracted collegiate attention. Her commitment arrives as West Forsyth prepares for the next high school season and as younger players in the program consider their own development paths. Coaches and athletic administrators will need to balance celebrating the achievement with planning for roster turnover and maintaining competitive balance in a region where several programs regularly produce college-level talent.

Forsyth County residents who follow local high school sports will see the immediate effect in West Forsyth's roster composition and long-term impact in how area athletes map their routes to college athletics. Duckworth's decision to stay in-state is likely to be viewed as both a personal milestone and a local success for a community that places increasing emphasis on preparing student-athletes for opportunities beyond high school.