Volleyball Falls Early, Title Streak Comes to Abrupt End
The Warriors’ volleyball team lost to Howard on October 6 in a third-round playoff match. After Howard took the first set 25-14, the Warriors battled back to win the next two sets 28-26, 23-25. However, the momentum wildly swung back in Howard’s direction as they won the last two sets 25-9 and 15-5.
“The Howard team was very smart and had a lot of talent. We played as hard as we could but sadly did not come out with the win,” said junior defensive specialist Alison Sarver.
The Warriors went 12-1 in the regular season, losing to Damascus on October 18 in five sets, which ended the Warrior’s 68-game undefeated streak over the course of three seasons. The Warriors ably overcame that disappointment with an impressive win on October 22 away at Good Counsel. The Warriors entered the Howard game with a first-round playoff victory at home over Springbrook.
“I’m so proud of the team for putting together a great season. Their dedication and passion to their teammates and coaches took their play to an extremely high level,” said Coach Brian McCarty. “The Howard match was a lot of fun to be a part of even though we didn’t come out on top. There was a great crowd, loud gym, and some really competitive volleyball being played – just a great atmosphere for our team to play in. We have to give credit to Howard; they were a strong, athletic, powerful team that played well. I’m proud of the way our team competed all night and fought for each other. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get some big points when we needed to.”
Although the Warriors lost in the playoffs earlier than many anticipated, the team still has high hopes for next year when they will return 12 players. “Next season we’re going to make a comeback and be just as good, if not better, and we’ll work as hard as we did this last season and hopefully go further in the playoffs,” said junior libero Kaleigh Homer.
“As for next year, I think we should be strong again,” added McCarty. “Our seniors leave the program with a legacy of hard work and success so hopefully our younger players can carry on those traditions.”