The Ignacio Volleycats’ A and C teams displayed ongoing coordination and sportsmanship as they finished off their last games of the season on Saturday, Oct. 3. After an intense struggle, the Lady Bobcats were defeated with very close scores.
The Ignacio Middle School Bobcat A-team put up a hardworking match against Dove Creek, coming short on the first game but closed in tight during the second. The game was a competitive match as both teams went back and forth with scores. Dove Creek defeated the Bobcats during both games, 25-16 and 25-22.
Despite the season loss, there is still plenty of room for improvement, according to A-team coach Jennifer Seibel.
“I thought we had a solid season with lots of great leadership from the girls,” she said. “They had some tough teams throughout their season, but they stuck with it. It was a good learning experience. We have a lot of time to prepare for next season. We need to get in the playtime to understand the concept. Our season only lasts a month and a half, so it goes by fast.”
Seibel addressed her strategies on preparing the volleyball team for next season.
“This season was more of a mental game, so it was a good way for the girls to learn mental toughness, and I think that’s what we are lacking. I will be focusing on mental toughness a lot more. All teams should understand that any team could be beaten at any given day. But I’m proud of the girls for all they’ve done.”
According to C-team coach Shasta Pontine, the ending of the season is bittersweet.
“It was a hard working season, but the team learned a lot,” she said. “There’s a lot of work we have to strive for, but that’s part of teamwork. I hope they had a lot of fun during the season and hope to see them again next time.”
The C-team advanced in the tournament and pitted against the Miller Middle School Angels from Durango. The lady Bobcats kept up their defense as the timer counted down during the final half. The Angels were declared victorious with the final score of 25-22.
Next up, the C-team went head-to-head against the Wolverines from Bayfield Middle School. Both teams kept their balance in play, picking off spikes and ground balls with persistence. Bayfield won the first game with a score of 25-16, and the second game with 25-17.
“We played well, we just have to practice some more,” Elisia Cruz said.