(TUCSON, Ariz.) Gilbert Christian volleyball hit a road block on Saturday, falling in straight sets (16-25, 20-25, 24-26) at Pusch Ridge. Junior Kaila Aston preferred her own kind of block, however, compiling four solo roofs in the match to lead all players.
The Knights were missing three starters in the contest, but showed resilience and perseverance as they tested new lineups and improved in every set as the match progressed.
"Today, there were multiple athletes who stepped up to play positions that they don't normally play, and I thought they did a great job being flexible," Head Coach Alyssa Misuraca said. "I really want to highlight what those players did for us, because it is not easy. First, Addie Steil, who usually serves as defensive specialist for our team, stepped up to play outside and right-side in this match. Addie impressed me, she was out there getting touches on multiple balls in the block, despite being much shorter than the hitters opposite of her. Then we had Selah Hommel, a middle who played up from JV today. Selah was extremely dynamic for us, not only blocking and hitting, but assisting in out-of-system balls, by either swinging on them or setting up other hitters. I also have to give credit to Alexia Heyn, who usually plays right-side for us, but got moved outside before the match. I thought that she was extremely aggressive out there and had some of our biggest swings. Finally, I want to say, Sidney Loth locked down the right-back defense. She was not afraid of the ground and she was digging practically everything that came her way. She even almost ran into a wall in her efforts to keep the ball in play for us."
It was business as usual for freshman Lillie Duitsman, who posted a team-best nine kills for the Knights, while senior Rio Taylor followed suit to lead in hitting percentage (.600), assists (13) and digs (10).
"Moving forward, we need to focus on playing our best no matter what is going on around us," Misuraca said. "It took us too long to settle in and play today, but there were some bright spots and I think that we can learn from this."
The Knights move to 5-3 overall with the loss. With the win, the Lions improve to 3-4 on the year.
Scottsdale Christian Academy (3-1) is next on the list for GCHS. The September 18th away contest is scheduled to begin at 6:00pm. Gilbert Christian returns home Tuesday, September 19th for its second match against Benjamin Franklin (6:00pm).
-GO KNIGHTS-
