Ark Valley News - Middle school volleyball splits opening matches

Middle school volleyball splits opening matches
By The News staff
Last Updated: August 31, 2017

The Valley Center Middle School volleyball team hosted Derby Aug. 29 to open its season. The Hornets split four matches, as both “A" teams won and both “B" teams lost.

Valley Center will host Hutchinson Aug. 31.

Eighth grade

The “A" team beat Derby in three sets 25-17, 20-25, 15-4.

The Hornets started off well but hit a lull toward the end of the first set that carried over into the second set. Heidi Meyer served Valley to a 10-0 lead in the last set, then Halle Brittain finished off the serving.

“I see a lot of leadership in both of those girls, as they play all the way around the court," said coach Kyrie Edwards. “It was a good first night to get the jitters out. We just need to keep improving every night."

The “B" team lost 11-25, 17-25.

The serving of Hannah Jones and Samantha Swindle kept Valley in each game.

“First game of the season seemed to be a new experience for some," said coach JoAnn Owens. “Passing and serving was a struggle the first set. … First game jitters are out of the way, and we are ready to play against Hutch on Thursday."

Seventh grade

As did the eighth-graders, Valley's “A" team went three sets in prevailing 25-20, 18-25, 15-10.

“I am really proud of this team tonight. I know they were nervous, but they came out and played well," coach Melissa Fehrenbach said. “Emma Bond's consistent serving and hustle were big factors in the win, and I see a great leader in Mya Thompson."

The “B" team lost in two 21-25, 11-25.

“Although the night didn't go as we hoped, the girls played really hard," said coach Courtney Fields. “Allene Sherbon had several aces throughout both games, and Ashley Isham really hustled in the back row to make plays. We are hopeful that as we move forward in the season, we will only continue to improve."