The Lady Wildcat varsity volleyball team started off their season with a bang – the girls walked away for the second year in a row with the Imlay City Tournament.
The Oxford team went 5-0 for the day taking them into the finals against top rival North Branch, who defeated the Wildcats in the first round of districts last year. But the Oxford ladies were able to hold their own with the leadership of senior captains Shannon Gerbe, Lindsey Tarrant and Brandi Parker, and ended the day 6-0.
“Beating North Branch in the finals was a great boost for the season,” said Head Coach Kristi McDevitt, “especially since they knocked us out of Districts last year.”
Gerbe, playing setter, finished the day with 73 assists, 40 service points and 11 aces. Left side hitter Tarrant had the most kills with 37 and showed a strong defense with 44 digs. Middle hitter Brandi Parker assisted her co-captains with 10 blocks, 57 digs and 48-57 passing.
McDevitt said senior defensive specialist Kristi Curtis had one of her best days with 31-33 passing and 24-30 digs.
“I think all around we played very well both defensively and offensively, although our defense stood out the most,” said McDevitt. “Opposing teams were frustrated that their hits and tops wouldn’t fall against our defense.”
The Lady Wildcats are matched up against Goodrich next on Dec. 20 at the Blackhawk’s home.