The West Prairie High School varsity volleyball squad posted a 3-1 record in placing second out of 12 teams at the Sherrard Volleyball Classic held on Oct. 11.
The Cyclones posted wins against Knoxville (25-14, 25-14) and Ridgewood (2516, 25-10) before losing to the host Tigers 25-18, 25-17.
West Prairie rebounded to win its final match of the day, defeating United Township 25-18, 25-20.
The Cyclones earned the second place finish via tie-breaker over Erie-Prophetstown as they allowed fewer overall points to their opponents.
The Cyclones improved to 18-13 heading into their final four matches of the regular season.
“Our goal at the beginning of the year was a 20-win regular season, and that is within our grasp” said West Prairie head coach Drew Snyder. “The girls are really gelling together well right now, and we are getting great performances from our starters, and contributions from our bench as well.”
“We are definitely peaking at the right time, and are playing our best volleyball of the year,” he added.
Stats leaders on the day for the Cyclones included the following: Set Assists – Madelynn Sullivan, 54.
Kills – Niah Zimmerman, 18; Alyvia Barkley, 15 and Alexa Barkley, 13.
Serving – Abby Starbuck, 18 points with six service aces; Niah Zimmerman, 18 points with three service aces; Alyvia Barkley, 17 points and Macy Branch, 14 points.
Digs – Sullivan, 26 digs; Niah Zimmerman, 20 digs; Starbuck and Alyvia Barkley, 19 digs each.
Blocks – Alexa Barkley, 4.5 total blocks.
For their efforts, Sullivan and Starbuck were two of 12 individuals that were named to the all-tournament team.
“Since our 2-8 start after the first three matches in the Suns’ Classic in early September, we are 16-5, with some good wins against great opponents, as well as hardfought 3-set losses against good teams,” said Snyder. “I am confident in our girls moving forward into the postseason, and am hopeful that we can accomplish some of those goals as well.”
