Despite practising just once, the William E. Hay Wildcats senior girls’ volleyball team reached the consolation final in the 24-team Red Deer College Invitational tournament on the weekend.
The Wildcats lost to Lloydminster in a tight consolation final, falling 15-13 in the third game.
“Up 13-11 in the third game, the girls were unable to gain the win, having difficulty with their offence attacking,” said Wildcats coach Warren Aspenes.
“From my perspective as a coach, I was very pleased with the way the girls played throughout the weekend, showing improvement in each game. The girls were disappointed to lose such a close game, but realized that they had gained some valuable experience for their upcoming season.”
The regular season began Tuesday — after the Independent went to press — as Stettler hosted Innisfail.
The Wildcats opened the Red Deer tournament by splitting a set with Three Hills , losing to Notre Dame and defeating Bentley.
In the best-of-three playoff round, Stettler defeated Drayton Valley in two straight games and then had a close match with St. Augustine (Ponoka Catholic) as the Wildcats won the third game 15-12.
Stettler’s JV girls were also scheduled to open their season Tuesday at home to Innisfail. Next Tuesday, the senior and JV girls from Stettler visit Ponoka.
The Wildcats’ JV boys’ team begins its season today in Innisfail. Rocky Mountain House visits Stettler next Wednesday.