When each of the three sets were tight in Saturday’s volleyball season opener, Columbus Christian heated things up from the serving line.
The Crusaders used long runs to end each of the first two sets and another in the middle of the third set to claim a 25-14, 25-19, 25-15 win against Dugger Union.
“We’re making sure at least that (servers are) looking for a call and that they’re actually intentional about what they’re doing,” Columbus Christian coach Bruce Giggy said. “It’s making them focus a little bit better on what they’re supposed to be doing, and it’s essentially making them better players.”
The Crusaders were clinging to a 15-14 lead in the first set. After a sideout, Madison Henderson served nine consecutive points, with five coming on aces.
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Dugger Union led the second set 19-18 before Columbus Christian gained a sideout to tie it. Savannah Herron then served six consecutive points, with the final two coming on aces.
In the third set, the Bulldogs led 9-8. After the Crusaders picked up a sideout to tie it, Mayah Schundelmier served nine consecutive points, including a run of four straight aces at one point.
Schundelmier and Henderson each finished with six aces.
“I was kind of nervous when I first got up there because it’s the first game,” said Henderson, an eighth-grader. “But (Giggy) picks spots.”
Hannah Lorimor led Columbus Christian with six kills and five digs. Sabrina Herron recorded 12 assists, and Schundelmier had two blocks.
Sabrina Herron added four kills, and Savannah Herron added three kills.
“We have a great young team,” Giggy said. “We’re in the midst of growing and trying to get these guys to understand the game of volleyball. Hopefully as we progress throughout our season, out tidal wave will continue.”
