Head Varsity Volleyball Coach says girls are hitting their stride

The Merrill Girls Varsity Volleyball Team is just hitting their stride, Head Varsity Volleyball Coach Kasie Holt said this week. And the timing, as their season “heads into the home stretch,” couldn’t be better.
“Currently holding a 12-11 overall record and 3-1 mark in the Great Northern Conference (GNC), the team has battled through adversity and is finding its rhythm at just the right time,” Holt said.
“The Jays’ only Conference loss came at the hands of powerhouse Mosinee, who is currently ranked No. 2 in Division 2,” she said. “With the GNC Tournament just a few weeks away, the team is eager for another shot at the Indians and hopes to be better prepared for a different outcome.”
“A major highlight came last week in a thrilling road win at Northland Pines, where the Jays secured a 3-1 victory with set scores of 23-25, 25-20, 27-25, and 26-24,” Holt said. “It was a turning point for the season, as our setter and hitters have begun to click and the offense is running with more confidence.”
“Most recently, the Bluejays faced Shawano in a non-Conference road test,” she said. “Despite falling in five sets (14-16 in the final), the team showed resilience, battling back after a slow start. With Shawano being a Regional opponent, the match offered valuable experience for postseason play.”

On Sept. 23, the Merrill Bluejays won their home-game face-off against the Antigo Red Robins. Photographer Pete Tesch got some great shots of the game in action and the Merrill Youth Volleyball players who came out to support the Varsity Team. [See photos.]
Holt called attention to a number of players who are definitely standing out statistically.
“Grace Reimann leads the team in kills with 103, followed closely by Kendell Klug with 87,” Holt said.
“Brooklyn Harding has been a force at the net, tallying 17 blocks while also contributing heavily on offense.”
“In the back row, Avery Hoock has anchored the defense with 189 digs,” Holt said.
“Kaela Clerveaux continues to spark the Jays with 334 assists and a team-leading 54 serving aces.”
Holt said the team has had their share of challenges so far this season as “injuries have forced lineup changes and players into unfamiliar roles.”
“Starting middle Grace Hoff has been sidelined with an ankle injury, but the team has responded by stepping up and embracing new responsibilities,” she said.
“With three Conference matches and one non-Conference match left before the GNC Tournament, the Bluejays are determined to build on their progress,” Holt said. “The team’s improved chemistry and strong play in recent weeks have them optimistic about making a deep run.”