Warriors Begin Season with Three Straight Wins

By Derrick Forsythe, Record Sports Editor
Posted 5/9/12

Outstanding service has provided the base for a 3-0 start to the season for the Warrenton volleyball team. Despite their relative inexperience, the Warriors began the season with a trio of three-set …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

Log in

Warriors Begin Season with Three Straight Wins

Posted

Outstanding service has provided the base for a 3-0 start to the season for the Warrenton volleyball team. Despite their relative inexperience, the Warriors began the season with a trio of three-set wins. They capped off the streak by defeating Gateway Athletic Conference newcomer Orchard Farm in two sets (25-15, 25-20). “For a young group of players we’re off to a fast start,” said Coach Hahn Nguyen. “But the season is long, and we still have many areas to improve.” Junior Rachael Reckamp has set the tone early in Warrenton’s matches, doing so again last Thursday. “Our serving was great,” said Nguyen. “Rachael started us out really well. She’s a jump server with a consistent strong serve.” The Warriors jumped out to a 10-1 lead in the opening set, also leading 12-2. “We started out with strong service and just rode it out,” said Nguyen. “We’re not firing on all cylinders yet, but we’re still having good results.” Reckamp finished with five kills and two aces. Orchard Farm was more competitive in the second set, battling deeper into the match. “The second set was more challenging,” said Nguyen. “Orchard Farm adjusted, and its passes got better.” Nguyen, who is in his first year as head coach, says crisp ball movement and sharp footwork have paid dividends. “Our passes are good, and we don’t make a lot of mistakes in the serve receive,” said Nguyen. “Our defense was good, and we had some good blocks.” The Warriors’ contribution was well-balanced, and they have received immediate contribution from several newcomers. Juniors Daphne Meine and Maddie Sutherland had two kills each, with Meine adding an ace. Chelsea Crump had two aces with nine assists. Madi Heath and Nicole Hardt each had one kill, while freshman Morgan Muzzey added an ace. Rachel Hertel was responsible for 10 serve receives with just one error. Still, there are areas which Nguyen says need sharpening if the Warriors wish to continue this early onslaught of success. “Our hitting isn’t quite where we want it to be yet,” said Nguyen. “We’ve got decent size as far as our height. We don’t have super hard hitters, but they’ve all done a good job.” He is also looking for his team to speed up the pace of play. Warrenton will travel to St. Clair on Monday and Winfield on Tuesday.


X