On Oct. 10, for the second time this season, Issaquah’s Varsity Volleyball lost a tough match against their formidable opponent, the Mount Si Wildcats. Entering the match, energy was palpable, spirits were high, and the Eagles looked ready to compete. Nonetheless, Mount Si’s powerful serves and swift blocks aided them in taking the first set, with a score of 12-19. Although visibly discouraged, Issaquah gained an immense lead in the second set, after a series of strong volleys and fierce spikes. Aspiration ran through the crowd’s veins, as the Eagles won the second set with a score of 25-22. Unfortunately, the Wildcats’ strategies and communication led them to a satisfying second victory against the Issaquah Eagles.
Issaquah player No. 12, sophomore Ariana Simms, held consistent effort and strength throughout the match, and is noticeably one of the most vigorous players on the court. Her dominant strike and impeccable aim resulted in numerous points and thrilling plays for the Eagles. Halfway through the second set, Simms sent the ball thundering over the net and landing just before the baseline, bringing the Eagles up to a lead of six points, with a score of 8-2. No. 10, senior Jordan Bevill, commented on their comeback in the second set, explaining how spirit directly impacted performance: “Personally, I really focus on celebrating our good plays…. We feed of off each other’s energy, and when we keep spirits high, we perform better.”
After the second set, the Eagles began to lose their comeback, and Mount Si is in it to win it. The Wildcats have mastered techniques of applying pressure to their opponent, through the double block method, a strategy where two players work together to block shots from the other side. Mount Si player No. 2, Taija Wheeler, and player No. 5, Taylor Showalter were permanently stationed in front of the net to block any incoming shots from the Issaquah court. Individually, their vertical jumps, and rapid reflexes are something to fear, but combined, they become an impenetrable wall that our Eagles could not beat. Mount Si finished off the third set with an unexpected ace, that brought the score to 16-22, Wildcats.
Issaquah’s No. 13, senior Becca Lowder, reflects on their losses in the third and fourth sets, saying, “The last couple of sets we just absolutely fell apart as a team. We ended up getting mad at each other, instead of helping, and building back our motivation.” Lowder goes on to elaborate on her visions for the remaining matches, saying, “This season has been good, but I feel like we haven’t been reaching our full potential. I’m hoping that we continue to learn and go on to win a few more games.” Though it was an unfortunate loss for our Varsity girls, a new match brings new opportunity. Head Coach Tami Reese explains that “every practice, every game, we just keep trying to get better. We take notes on areas of improvement, and we focus on those aspects the most in practice.” Good luck next time Eagles!
