Lady Wildcats Dominate on Senior Night
By Tom Elling
MILL HALL – The Central Mountain volleyball team started a bit sluggish but then took complete control, defeating an overmatched Midd-West in three straight sets (25-13, 25-10, 25-10) to boost the Lady Cats’ record to 25-3.
In District 6 rankings, their record shows 8-1, good enough to retain the top ranking just ahead of Hollidaysburg (7-1). Games not played to the best-of-five are not considered in the official rankings.
Coach Chipp McCann started his seniors, and they delivered. Payton, Kinley, Katelyn Bowman, Claire Bowman, Cora Myers, Ellen Banfill, and Heidi Miller all had special moments and contributed to the sweep.
“We expected the results tonight,” McCann explained. “This gave us a great chance to get every senior a lot of playing time. But games like this won’t prepare us for two difficult back-to-back games next Monday and Tuesday.”
McCann was referencing two road games against Loyalsock and Williamsport. “Williamsport is a team we defeated earlier, and they will be out for revenge.”
While all the players contributed, set one saw Ellen Banfill performing extremely well in her serving (several aces) and with key kills. “Ellen is a veteran and a leader,” McCann noted. “She played well all night long.”
In the second set, Lillian Downing and Reese Walizer stepped up. Downing had multiple blocks and added a few kills to lead the team. Walizer, the libero, didn’t need to dig as often as usual, but she was there when needed and kept the volleys alive multiple times.
In the third set, it was Sophia Hardy who set the pace. She is probably the most dominant server for the Lady Wildcats. Gabby Beaubrun played extremely well in her limited action. She delivers the ball with fierce velocity, making it difficult for opponents to return.
McCann agreed that serving was a strong point for the evening. “We practice serving, as well as all the basics, in every practice. We’re getting better and better from the back line.”
The jubilant but cautious coach took the victory in stride. He also took time to mention the supportive student section, who provided loud and positive encouragement, staying on their feet all night long.
Now, it’s time to get ready for the challenging schedule ahead.
