Senior Girls volleyball - Dragons defeat Hawks in three thrilling sets

St. Michael's Senior Dragons
C. Davis photos

Chris Davis, Pincher Creek Voice

A sizable crowd attended as St. Michael's Senior Girls Volleyball team hosted Halton's Hawks at the Dale Wentz Memorial Gymnasium at St. Michael's School this evening, September 25.  We were treated to three sets of fast paced action from two well matched teams.

The Dragons won all three sets, but the Hawks definitely picked up their game as the evening progressed.  The first set was Dragons all the way, ending 25-12.  The Hawks started to find their groove in the second set, which the Dragons won by a much smaller margin, 25-18.  The third set was particularly fun to watch, with the score even several times.  The Hawks pulled ahead at one point and there were a couple of terrific volleys.  The Hawks struggled near the end of the game, appearing fatigued, and it cost them as the score went from 17-17 to a final 25-21 finish in the Dragons favour.

 A great set, truly.

I remember seeing most of these same girls playing three years ago, and it was a bit astonishing to reflect on the very evident growth in skills, teamwork, and determination. That goes for the athletes on both teams. On top of that, I feel obliged to comment on the high quality of sportsmanship demonstrated by both teams, a real pleasure to witness.  It seems these young ladies have been learning personal skills that will serve them in good stead going forward.

One of the standout players of the day for me was Josie Naumczyk of the Dragons, an all-around terrific athlete who was totally on the ball this evening, literally and figuratively.  She serves well, she returns well, her instincts and ability to react quickly make her a formidable competitor. She stood out in a game full of stand out performances.

I spoke briefly with Dragons Coach Tyler Speelman after the game. The enthusiasm for this team that he expressed after their sets in the Crowsnest Pass on Monday evening has not abated one whit. "We are attacking a lot. Our goal is to get 20 hits from a single game and we got 19. You know what?  That's pretty awesome. We have a couple of girls that are working really hard, and it's nice to see, and it's nice to be a part of. I really love it. It makes the game more exciting when we're attacking and diving for the ball."

Upcoming games - Monday September 30:

• Halton's Senior Girls Hawks host Nobleford at Matthew Halton High School
• St. Michael's Sr. Girls Dragons travel to Fort Macleod to play F.P. Walshe
• Crowsnest Pass Pandas and Panthers host Immanuel Christian High School at Crowsnest Consolidated High School

Games are scheduled to start at 6:00 pm.

Note:  The 2013 Westwinds Volleyball League Schedule has been adjusted and those adjustments will be reflected on our Community Calendar asap.