With an overall record of 42-2-1 and a 27th consecutive win in the Flint Metro League, the Oxford varsity volleyball players are looking to burn up the court this Friday during district competition.
“Our team is focused,” said assistant coach Danielle Gerbe. ” The most important part of our season is ahead of us. I know the girls will work hard in practice this week.”
In preparation for Friday, the Lady Cats scrimmaged this week against a group of male beach players and attended a six team scrimmage at Clarkston.
Gerbe said that the team would not have been so strong this year without all of the members.
“Every girl on the team is very important,” she added.
Protecting the middle this year were Caryn Inman and Jacqui Ludeman. Brandi Parker held the offense as setter, while Shannon and Breanne Gerbe controlled the defense in the back row.
Gerbe said other notable players for the season include Lindsey Tarrant, Alivia Stalnaker and Kristen Zonsius.
The Lady Wildcats kept there team momentum geared up this past week by first defeating Lapeer East 15-8, 15-9 and then winning the Ypsilanti Tournament on Saturday.
“Oxford wrapped up their last home game with a victory,” said Gerbe. “Seniors Caryn Inman, Jacqui Ludeman, Breanne Gerbe, Kristin Zonsius and Alivia Stalnaker played their final league game.”
Inman had 11 kills and two blocks; Ludeman followed with eight kills and two blocks; and Breanne Gerbe had five service points, two aces and seven digs.
“We will miss all the seniors next year,” Gerbe added. “I hope they accomplish everything they set their minds to. What a great group of girls.”
On Saturday at the Ypsilanti Tournament, Oxford topped South Lyon, Greenhills, Pioneer, Belleville, Huron in the quarter finals, Ypsilanti in the semi-finals and Pinchney in the finals.
This was a big win for the ladies since this past year they last in the finals.
Some highlights include 42 service points from Breanne Gerbe, 29 digs by Shannon Gerbe, 24 service points and 56 kills by Inman, 46 kills by Ludeman, 30 service points and 100 percent setting average by Parker and 25 service points by Tarrant.
The district games are being hosted at Oxford this year and begin at 5:45 p.m. on Friday. Oxford will go up against the winner of the North Branch versus Brandon match.
“We have played everybody in our district except Davison,” said Gerbe. “So we pretty much know who we have to gear up for. We will work hard in practice this week for those teams.”