Volleyball Finishes GRAC Conference Schedule Undefeated
Going through a full conference schedule without a defeat is no small task, especially when the conference has recently expanded to 8 teams. With 14 scheduled games there are always multiple chances to slip up and let a match get away. This season, that was not an issue. After a final road win at Kaskaskia on Wednesday night, the Vols wrapped up the schedule without a single defeat.
"Over the years I feel like we have been very successful in conference play. In my 10 years as coach, we have won the conference title 5 times, and finished 2nd every other year. So, the expectation every year is to be at the top of the conference, but being undefeated is a much harder task. We have only accomplished it one other time back in 2010," said Coach Burnside.
"To be undefeated with a roster that is filled with freshmen has never happened before. We feel very proud of what we have done this season, and very optimistic about next year as well," according to Coach.
The match at Kaskaskia was not easy. Their team played the best volleyball of the season, and the Vols were not at the top of their game. Several subs were necessary, and nerves clearly played a role in the match. Still, the end result was a 25-20, 23-25, 25-20, 25-22 victory to cap off the conference schedule.
The Vols were led by freshmen outside hitters Kim Hall and Olivia Hallet. Both contributed defensively with 13 digs, but there offense was probably even more important. Olivia finished with 11 kills and Kim with 12. Rightside hitter Bryleigh Buchanan had another solid night as well with 9 kills. Sophomore setters Shelbey Saye and Taytum Murdock did their part with 19 and 22 assists respectively. Defensively, Logan was led by Alanis Below with 14 digs.