Wednesday night, Western Alamance High School’s volleyball team’s front line struck more than just volleyballs. Flashy or not, the Warriors’ momentum was proven effective as they swept Dalton McMichael High School in three straight sets.
Western opened strong with a 25–16 win, edged McMichael 25–22 in a fiery second set, and sealed the win 25–14 in the third behind consistent offense from junior Reese Walker.
McMichael’s Phoenix fought their hardest, even tying at one point in the second set, but could not push through. While Western’s sideline energy resembled family dynamics on the sidelines, McMichael’s seemed to be more straight forward; chanting and yelling from the sidelines.
Western Alamance’s outside hitter, Walker, was the centerpiece player with more kills and aces than anyone else in the game and was a key piece according to head coach Meagan Nadeau.
“Reese has been a dominant force for us,” Nadeau said. “One hit from her can change the whole momentum of our team.”
Senior Paityn Kehoe and freshman Sydney Wilson played a supportive role in this match with Kehoe hitting a huge rollover dig, which was huge according to Nadeau.
“That kid right there was everywhere, all over the court,” Nadeau said. “They executed exactly what they needed to and it was beautiful.”
McMichael junior Kenley Kallam and McMichael senior Zoey Bradford showed out with multiple aces and kills. McMichael senior Daisy Pinzon’s determination to keep up the energy of her team made the match remarkable.
The coaching dynamics for each team were notable.
Nadeau remained animated and supportive throughout every play. McMichael’s coach Marcia Woods had a more laidback approach with her players but was more than open to one-on-one courtside feedback.
This match was a strong sweep for Western Alamance and although McMichael showed grit, they lacked consistency in the game. The McMichael Phoenix will look to regroup when they host Southwestern High School on September 13.