TVS ‘Off the Schnide’

Yes TVS volleyball is ‘off the Schnide’ to quote coach Roberts.  After winning its first 3 games, TVS has been on a losing skid that seemed as though it would never stop – 8 straight losses.  But finally this week South got win number 4 against conference foe Bethel.  But first they would have to play Eaton.

South stayed with Eaton in all three sets, but fell 25-18, 25-17, 25-22.  Eaton is a team with a blend of youth and experience and have had some success this season.  Coach Roberts gave credit to the Eaton program, “Kudo’s to Eaton for playing a dominating match. The scores really did not indicate just how in control of the match Eaton really was. We were flat and just couldn't string enough momentum together to make an impact.  I had remembered Julia Titus from early on in the pre-season and was impressed with her height, skills and the advantages her left-handed presence makes at the net. Then in introductions, I recognized the Puckett name,I knew she would be athletic. Although their varsity time tonight was brief, I believe Brittany George and Aubrey Stevenson will fill some key roles for Eaton come post-season.

She continued, “Also impressive tonight were the two seniors, Taylor Guay and Alyson Hood. Taylor Guay from her setting/defensive position and Alyson Hood from her serving and attacking position. It is evident that the changes Jess Coach Sams is making with the girls are paying off. I was really impressed with the athletic administration at Eaton for running a very sportsmanship-centered pre-match.”

Next up for South was Bethel which they dispatched in 3 straight sets in workmanlike fashion: 25-15, 25-11, 25-15.  Never really giving Bethel a chance to take control at all.  Coach Roberts had plenty of praise for the team after this match, “In this match its more about the emotions that surround the win than anything else at this point. I'm really proud of my girls for playing much better and taking care of the ball tonight. Senior leader Danielle Kreitzer stepped up not only  offensively but defensively as well by charting four kills and six digs. Paris Gruber did a nice job at the net for us tonight. I think this will do a lot for her confidence moving forward. Taylor Kirkpatrick stepped up as well with four digs and eight assists. Taylor shared some of the setting duties tonight and did a nice job. We'll need her presence down the stretch and into the tournament.”

But South was not done yet they next had a match against Ansonia.  And again South prevailed in straight sets to get yet another solid victory:  25-16, 25-17, 25-10. Coach Roberts was asked for comment after the game, “Gentry Gates lead the way us tonight with seven digs, twelve assiss, five kills, a solo block and seven blocks kept in play. It was an outstanding performance by Gentry - I like to see many more matches like this one where she takes control. Skyler Lain had a nice night in her supportive role by charting fiveaces, 9 digs and four kills. Caitlyn Meyer tallied five digs and five kills.”

It must relief for South to get back into the win column not once but twice. And hopefully the program is peaking at the right time.  The state tournament is right around the corner and they could have a chance to surprise a team or two.