Republic’s volleyball team started four sophomores against a Kickapoo team with four players who’ve committed to play in college. And for a while, the young Lady Tigers held their own.
But with Republic leading 11-8 in the first set, Kickapoo reeled off ten straight points to take control, and never looked back. The Lady Chiefs cruised to a 25-13, 25-16 win, spoiling the Lady Tigers’ home opener.
Coach Piper Wright says her team failed to make the necessary adjustments against the much taller Kickapoo lineup.
“I think the difference was, we just switched up our shot. They have a huge block, which is exciting to go against, but if we’re not being smart with our shot selection and where we’re hitting the ball, that could definitely be tough for us,” Wright says.
Emma Pearce and Reese Watkins each got three kills to lead Republic. Bella Drennan had six assists, and Eryn Russell turned in 15 digs to lead the defense.
The varsity Lady Tigers fall to 1-1. Wright says the loss against a quality opponent gives her team a good gauge of their early-season progress.
“We always want to face tough competition. Anytime you play tough competition and you lose, it’s an opportunity to learn something, and I think we’ve learned a couple things tonight,” Wright says.
Kickapoo won the freshman and JV matches, both in straight sets.