Bronson Vikings Conclude 2023 Volleyball Season with 2-2 Record at Leland Invitational
The Bronson Vikings had a solid start to their 2023 volleyball season as they competed in the Leland Invitational. Despite facing some tough challenges, the Vikings finished the tournament with a record of 2-2 overall.
Head coach Jean LaClair praised the team for their resiliency and how they pushed through obstacles. The Vikings kicked off the day with a victory against Traverse City Christian, winning with scores of 25-22 and 25-10. However, they experienced a tough loss to Portage Northern with scores of 13-25 and 19-25. Undeterred, Bronson bounced back and secured their second win of the tournament against McBain, triumphing with scores of 25-19 and 25-19.
In the quarterfinals of bracket play, the Vikings faced the host team from Leland. It was a challenging match, and despite their best efforts, Bronson fell short, losing in three sets with scores of 25-18, 20-25, and 5-15.
Junior Aubree Calloway showcased her skills at the net, leading the team with 23 kills along with eight aces, five digs, and seven blocks. Junior Payton Springstead also made significant contributions with 20 kills, 10 digs, two blocks, and six aces.
Setter Aleah Brackett had an impressive tournament, registering 38 assists, 16 digs, six aces, 13 kills, and one block. Ciara Blankenship, known for her defensive skills, added 25 digs, two aces, one kill, and one block.
Other players who contributed to the Bronson effort were Kennedy Clemens with six aces, 13 digs, and two blocks; Ryleigh Fee with two kills, one dig, and one block; Itzel Sanchez with five digs and four aces; and Mya Webb with five assists.
Bronson will now spend the week working on improving their game before hosting a non-conference quad on Saturday, beginning at 10 a.m.
Quincy Lady Orioles Show Promise at Carrie Adams Invite
The Quincy Lady Orioles had a successful weekend at the annual Carrie Adams Memorial Invite hosted by St. Phil. Going up against tough opponents, Quincy split their matches in pool play before facing the host Tigers in a thrilling first-round match of bracket play.
In pool play, the Lady Orioles split their games against Hillsdale Academy, Climax Scotts, and Pennfield. Solid performances led them to the gold bracket, where they faced St. Phil.
Despite starting slow, Quincy fought back in the second set, relying on strong blocking and attacking to secure a win and force a deciding third set. The match remained intense, with Quincy holding a 14-13 lead. However, St. Phil staged a comeback, ultimately winning the set 16-14.
Head coach Alixandra Neitzert commended the team’s performance against St. Phil and expressed her excitement for the upcoming season.
Several players stood out for Quincy, including Olivia Davenport, who led the team with 30 digs. Alyssa McCavit, Josie Mescher, Elly Brewer, and Danika Skirka also contributed significantly in the dig department. Abby Leosh and Skirka led the team in aces, while Mescher and Brewer showcased their playmaking abilities with assists.
Anna Richer led the team in kills, with McCavit, Skirka, and Leosh also making valuable contributions in the attacking aspect.
With a 2-1-3 overall record, Quincy will take some time off before resuming play after the Labor Day break. They will face Reading to kick off Big 8 play on September 6.
Tekonsha Indians Finish as Runners-Up at Tekonsha Volleyball Invitational
The Tekonsha Indians started their 2023 season on a positive note as they hosted their annual volleyball invitational. The tournament welcomed three other teams, providing a day filled with exciting volleyball action.
Tekonsha performed well in pool play, finishing with a record of 3-3 and securing a third seed in the bracket play. In an impressive upset, the Indians defeated the second-seeded Litchfield team in three sets during the semifinals. However, they faced a heartbreaking loss in the championship match against Burr Oak, falling in two sets with scores of 25-16 and 27-26. Despite narrowly missing out on the title, Tekonsha achieved runner-up honors in their own invitational.
No individual statistics were made available for the day, but the team’s overall performance showcased their potential and determination.
The Tekonsha Indians will look to build upon their strong showing as they continue their season.
