WCMS holds first-ever home match: Volleyball team falls short against ATMS

By DALE STUBBLEFIELD Staff Reporter for the Southern Standard

Rachel Walker of the Warren County Middle School volleyball sets the ball as Kathryn McKinley follows the play during Tuesday’s match against Avery Trace. The match was the first ever in the WCMS gym.

A little history was made Tuesday afternoon at the Warren County Middle School gym.

The Lady Pioneers played their match against Avery Trace Middle School at home in their own gym. The results may not have been to the Lady Pioneers liking, however, as Avery Trace won the best two out of three, 25-21, 18-25, 12-25.

In the first game the Lady Pioneers played smart and aggressively. Kallie Haley played solid at the net, and serving by Brooke Bowman gave Warren County the first game.

In the second game, Kathryn McKinley showed a strong service game as she collected six points from the line. Rachel Walker, Miki Rogers and Bowman played solid at the net as well, as the Lady Pioneers tried to rally. But Avery Trace came up with three big kills in the second game to take the win.

In the final game Lady Raiders Samantha Mayberry and Kim Robinson took control from the service line. Avery Trace’s experience and size started to wear on WCMS. The Lady Pioneers struggled with passing and never had a chance to get any offense going.

“This was a good match and I see improvement every time we step on the floor,” said coach Farrah Griffith. “Our setting and net play have improved, and the girls have great attitudes. They play hard every game and are learning from their mistakes.

“We are excited to have our own gym to play in,” Griffith added. “This is something that will benefit this program. A lot of people have helped us get this equipment and make it possible to have our own playing facility.”

The Lady Pioneers will travel to Cookeville Saturday, to take part in a playday hosted by Avery Trace.