-
Trojan Ava Fischer #7 tipping the ball over the net, while Wykons Danica Shamion #7 and Kya Dallavalle #11 attempting to block the ball.
Trojan Ava Fischer #7 tipping the ball over the net, while Wykons Danica Shamion #7 and Kya Dallavalle #11 attempting to block the ball.
By Patrick Browne
CRYSTAL FALLS — Several weeks ago, at the Forest Park Invitational on Sept. 16, the Lady Trojans and Lady Wykons squared off in the finals of the 10-team tournament to play for the championship. In a three-set high energy, competitive match the Trojans were able to win 25–20, 23–25 and 15–10. The Wykons arguably competed better than any previous team this year against an impressive Trojan volleyball team which is undefeated in both regular and tournament play.
The rematch took place on Sept. 26, as Forest Park welcomed the Lady Wykons to their gym for the first of two scheduled matches.
The first of three sets went to Forest Park, 25–18. Although the Wykons played well and kept the volleys going, they were challenged to win crucial points. After hard earned points which saw the serve shift to West Iron, service errors returned control quickly to Forest Park.
The second set saw the Trojans win four quick points to open the scoring. West Iron came storming back and the set was tied at 4, 6 and 8. The Wykons made a stand and fans on both sides of the court rooted loudly for their teams. After the 8–8 tie, Forest Park won a crucial point. The momentum shifted and the Trojans never looked back — winning the second set 25–10.
With both coaches subbing generously on both sides of the gym, the third set also went to Forest Park 25–20.
Standouts in the Trojan victory included Ava Fischer (eight kills; 12 digs), Charlie Larson (10 assists), and Audrey Franz (17 digs).
“We came out with a lot of energy and we never let up,” said Forest Park coach Bobbie Jo Anderson. “We covered the floor well and made West Iron work for every point. I am especially proud of our four seniors who are playing with heart in their final season.”
Wykon Coach Konnor Bjorkman acknowledged the Wykon’s strengths and shortcomings.
“We knew what to expect and our passers just couldn’t cover the court tonight,” he said. “We had a good effort from our attackers/blockers, but we were lacking in getting them the ball.”
The two teams will meet again on Oct. 17 at West Iron.