Stettler Senior Girls played against Gus Wetter Raiders of Castor to defeat them in straight sets on Wednesday, Oct. 14.
Although it was an exhibition game in preparation of the CARA final tournament scheduled on Nov. 7 in Stettler, the Stettler team played hard to win in three sets, the order of the core being 25-16, 17-25 and 25-19.
Coach Shonna Burkard was pleased with her team’s performance.
“We have really grown as a team and work extremely well together,” said Burkard. “We have learned positioning, which is always a challenge at this level, but our skill development is constantly getting better and will continue to improve.”
The team is made up of eight Grade 9 girls and four Grade 8 girls.
“Confidence as individual players is something the girls need to work on,” said Burkard. “They have definitely improved, but need to continue to shake off the mistakes and celebrate the many successes they experience in games, as we continue to work on our offence and getting into position to hit the ball.”
Stettler Senior Girls face Donalda next in Stettler on Wednesday, Oct. 21.
Stettler Wildcats overcome by Lacombe Rams
Stettler Wildcats lost to a strong Lacombe team on Monday, Oct. 19 as they went down in three straight sets, 25-19, 25-23and 26-24.
In the first two sets, Wildcats were down in the beginning, but came back within a few points each time halfway through the sets.
“We just couldn’t capitalize,” said Sheri Morbeck, JV girls’ coach. “Second set we were down 24-17, we got serve and Lacombe had troubles returning the serve, but we ended in a 25-23 loss.”
In the third set, Stettler began well, and were winning for the first half and then gave up six points in the middle of the game, giving Lacombe a huge edge and momentum.
“It was another hard-fought battle but we came up short again,” said Morbeck. “I am fortunate enough to have a great group of girls who get along and work well together, and this is definitely one of our strengths, being a team who has bonded well with each other.”
Morbeck believes that without team unity, the players would have to work harder for a more cohesive game.
“Being able to trust each other on the court is key to any good team,” said Morbeck. “Versatility is another strength and tonight this was proven yet again as I switched some players’ positions and they did very well.”
Stettler travels to Red Deer on Monday, Oct. 26 to play Notre Dame, currently undefeated, and on Wednesday, Oct. 28 faces Ponoka in an away game.