By Nick Valentin
King University’s Women’s volleyball team fell in a hard-fought matchup against North Greenville this past Tuesday. Many families and students alike supported the game with complementary t-shirts being given out to flood the bleachers with the theme of white-out to show off their King Pride. Each set was a dog fight between the two teams, going back and forth in the score column. NGU won the first set by 8, scoring 25-17. NGU won the second set by seven at 25-18. Finally, NGU won the third set by two at an impressive 30-28. King fought to the very end but fell as The Crusaders won three consecutive sets to the Tornados’ zero. The Tornados will look to bounce back this Tuesday as they travel to play Converse.
In an interview with junior defensive specialist/libero Jersey Wines, I had a few questions to ask about the game. After being tied for the most aces and digs, I wondered what motivated such a performance. “I set really high expectations for myself. I know those simple things can make the difference in winning a game,” Jersey said. Moreover, I asked what North Greenville Crusaders did better than the King University Tornados to find victory. “We didn’t execute in all the areas well. It takes everyone on the court doing their job as a team and working together instead of trying to play as individuals,” she explained. Jersey continued by stating, “I think we had an off night. Our top players didn’t have the stats they normally do, so we failed in the areas we are usually the strongest in.” Finally, I asked if she and her team looked forward to playing the Crusaders again in their final season game. “Yes, because it’s like a redemption game. Losing fuels a fire to win the next game.”
Game Leaders (Stats)
Kills (an unreturnable spike that results in a point for the attacking team): Hailee Blankenship and Abigale Jane (11)
Aces (a serve that the receiver cannot return): Claire Wilson and Jersey Wines (1)
Blocks (a defensive play where the front-row player jumps near the net to prevent the spiker from hitting the ball): Abigail Blecher (4)
Assists (a set, pass, or dig to a player that results in that teammate attacking the ball for a kill): Katie Harless (31)
Digs (a defensive bump that keeps the ball from hitting the floor when it’s sent to your side of the court): Claire Wilson, Jersey Wines, and Katie Harless (17)
For more information about the King University Women’s Volleyball team and upcoming or past games visit: https://kingtornado.com/sports/womens-volleyball?path=wvball
