CHANUTE — Iola Middle School volleyball coach Terri Carlin was certain of two things Thursday: “This was going to be a tough match,” she said. “And we were capable of beating Chanute.”
Carlin’s eighth-graders dropped a third-set tiebreaker to Chanute’s Royster Middle School by two points about three weeks ago, and Royster sported a 15-1 record headed into Thursday’s match.
It was fitting that Iola put forth one of its best performances of the season, defeating Royster, 25-23, 12-25 and 15-4 to wrap up the regular season. The Mustangs will be in Prairie View today for the Pioneer League Tournament.
Carlin said Iola’s fast start was attributed to Iola’s movement and communication.
“The girls were moving and talking some of the best I have seen all season,” she said. “Chanute stayed with us the entire game, but we never gave up.”
Things went sour in the second set. “We just couldn’t get anything going,” Carlin said. “Our passes were going everywhere and our sets weren’t hittable. It was kind of ugly.”
Still, the Mustangs were to regroup for the tiebreaker, and returned to doing the little things, Carlin said.
“It is always great to get a win against a team that previously beat you,” Carlin said. “It was a fun, much needed win for us, especially going into the league tournament (today). If we play like this, we have a great chance to come home with a medal.”
Reese Curry led the way with seven kills, a block and two ace serves.
“Reese showed great leadership on the court tonight with her play and communication,” Carlin said. “She is really growing as a teammate. She had great play at the net.”
Kaysin Crusinbery had two ace serves, one assist, and one kill. Alana Mader served up five aces to go with three kills and two assists. Shae McCain had her best defensive play of the season, with several key digs, Carlin said. “She is developing good court sense.” McCain also had two assists.
Mariah Jelenik had one ace and one kill, and other pivotal digs. Karingten Hall also had some great net play at crucial points in the game, leading to three kills. Kyndal Bycroft and Elza Clift had one assist.
The eighth-grade B team fell, 25-13 and 25-15.
“The B team continues to be a fun group to coach,” Carlin said. “Coach Gabi Brite was pleased with her team’s last match of the season. This group has worked together and communicated throughout the entire seaso
Brooklyn Ellis and Maliegha Molina both had two kills. Kinsey Schinstock had one ace and one assist. Harper Desmarteau had two aces. Kyndal Bycroft and Hailey Stogsdill each had one kill.
