Chieftains split matches against Trojans, Raiders

By Ginna Young

The week started out with a tough East Lakeland Conference foe for the Lake Holcombe volleyball squad, but the Chieftains saw success at the close of the week.

Sept. 27 vs. New Auburn conference (L 3-1)

It was off to New Auburn to begin the week, against an always tough team. The Chieftains watched the first set go to the Trojans, 25-15, but came up with a win in the second set, 25-20.

New Auburn wouldn’t go down, and bounced back to take a 25-18 and 25-19 victory.

“The girls played hard and did many things well,” said coach Beth Meddaugh. “We struggled again to close out sets to achieve the W in the end.”

Leading on kills, were juniors Ava Story and Emma Lechleitner, with 7, while senior Karly Kirkman had 8 aces. Junior Ella Hartzell finished the night with 22 digs, while sophomore Abby Jones came up with 15 assists.

Sept. 29 vs. Bruce conference (W 3-0)

Hosting Bruce for a conference match-up, Lake Holcombe was ready to pick up a win.

“The girls had great communication tonight, and it made a huge difference,” said Meddaugh. “They talked well, moved well and had a big night at the net, with all players logging multiple kills.”

The first set was close, but Lake Holcombe pulled it off, 25-20. The Chieftains didn’t look back, and claimed the second and third sets, 25-16 and 25-15.

Kirkman ended with 10 kills, while Hartzell had 15 digs. Sophomore Emmy Kirkman notched 12 assists, followed by Jones, with 11.

“They played well and had fun on the court, and it showed in the final score,” said Meddaugh.

The win improves the Chieftains’ record to 3-12 overall and 3-5 in league action.