YATES CENTER — A largely inexperienced Marmaton Valley Junior High volleyball team opened the season with matches at Yates Center Monday evening.
The Wildcats, who return only four players from 2020, won two of their three matches.
Marmaton Valley bounced back after a first set loss to win over host Yates Center, 18-25, 25-8, 15-10.
After that, Marmaton Valley lost to Thayer, 25-17, 25-20, before rebounding to win in straight sets, 25-20, 25-10, over Pleasanton.
Head coach Brenda Mill suspects the COVID-19 pandemic limited her team’s numbers last season.
Now, with the go-ahead for a full season, Marmaton Valley suits up a roster of 27.
That means a lot of newcomers to fit into the lineup.
“We’re still working on finding a group that can mesh together,” Mills said.
While statistics from Monday’s matches were unavailable, Mills said returning players Braelyn Sutton, Shelby Sprague and Jacee Mattox led the way, with several successful serves.
“And we had several subs come in off the bench and do a good job,” Mills said. “Those who came in made every serve.”
The Wildcats took only their A team, Mills said.
“We know we have some things to work on,” she continued. “But it was a good night for us.”
Marmaton Valley is at St. Paul Thursday.
