The Sandhills Valley Lady Mavericks Volleyball team started off its season tonight in Hayes Center for a triangular match against Maywood-Hayes Center and Paxton. Both JV and Varsity competitors were able to see action across two separate gymnasiums. While both teams ultimately lost their respective matches there was much to be excited about for the 2023 Volleyball season.
The Varsity began its season against MHC. It was a slow start for the team as they fell in the first set 12-25. However, once the team shook off the nerves they were able to battle it out before falling in the second set 19-25. Co-Captain and Senior Peyton Moore led the front row attacks and had multiple clutch digs from the back row. When asked after the match about her thoughts she said, "It felt good to be out there playing, we did start off a bit nervous and it took us some time to get into the flow of the game. We definitely need to start faster in the future."
Sophomore setter Ellexis Hagan was all over the floor setting up attacks for Senior hitters Elizabeth Fetty and Tessa Hansen. Juniors Ani Trimble and Shelby Layher provided clutch serves and passes that helped the Lady Mavericks fight back to a competitive second set.
During the second match against Paxton there were many uncharacteristic errors that led to a slow start and 10-25 defeat. In the second set the Lady Mavericks put up a solid fight and were in a tight battle before coming up a little short and losing 22-25.
As for the JV's they played the exact opposite of the Varsity in every conceivable way. First off the gym they played in had no air conditioning and the big fan that was provided did little to stifle the heat. The elements did not distract the young Lady Mavericks from their goal - they won the first set against MHC in thrilling fashion. Freshman hitter Briley Kramer sealed the win with an outstanding outside attack. The final score for set one was 26-24. Try as they could the JV's could not hold on to the momentum and eventually they lost the second and third set (19-25, 6-15). When asked after the match about her clutch attack in set one Kramer said "it felt good to get that kill to win the first set." She also went on to mention how the heat and slick floor did play a factor in the match. Kramer, along with her teammate Rachel Kemp-Powers both mentioned wanting to work hard and improve to get a shot at varsity playing time.
The JV's were also led by a Sophomore setter Kelsey Amos. Because of the split teams both Varsity and JV had to rely on one setter apiece which kept Amos and Hagan busy all night long.
While the final scores do not show it, there is a lot to be hopeful for during this volleyball season. All the ladies played extremely hard and did their best to represent all the fans of the Sandhills Valley Mavericks. The Lady Mavericks play again tomorrow, Friday August 25th at home against Southern Valley. The start times are scheduled for 4:30pm (JV) and 5:30pm (Var)