West Bladen Knights Show Grit in NCHSAA Volleyball Playoff Clash Against Camden County
In a thrilling showdown that tested the mettle of the West Bladen Knights, the NCHSAA 2A Volleyball Playoff match against Camden County unfolded with determination and spirit. Despite the final score of 3-0 in favor of Camden County, the West Bladen Knights left an indelible mark on the court, showcasing their unwavering commitment and resilience.
| Team | Result |
|---|---|
| Camden County | 3-0 victory |
| West Bladen | Showed resilience |
| Key Players | Stats |
|---|---|
| Kiera Lewis (West Bladen) | 5 attacks, 4 kills, 5 blocks |
| Trinity Meares (West Bladen) | 10 attacks, 4 kills, 1 block, 2 digs |
| Jenna McLean (West Bladen) | 8 attacks, 3 service points |
| Coach’s Note |
|---|
| Coach Gaye Davis praised West Bladen’s performance and resilience, noting it was their best game of the year. |
| Season Summary |
|---|
| West Bladen finished 3rd in the Southeastern Athletic Conference with an 11-12 record. |
Seeded 31st in Class 2A East, West Bladen faced the formidable second-seeded Camden County in the opening round of the NCHSAA Class 2A state volleyball playoffs. The set scores were 25-15, 25-14, and 25-7, in favor of Camden County. However, the final score didn’t fully encapsulate the intensity and heart with which the Knights played.
West Bladen Coach Gaye Davis, reflecting on the matchup, emphasized the honor of taking on the second-ranked team in the East and the fourth-ranked team in the state. She expressed her admiration for the Knights, stating, “These Knights didn’t win on the court as far as the score, but let me tell you they played the best (they have), I think, all year.”
Several key players for West Bladen demonstrated their prowess during the game. Senior Kiera Lewis led the charge with 5 attacks, 4 kills, and 5 blocks, exhibiting her tenacity at the net. Senior Trinity Meares brought her A-game with 10 attacks, 4 kills, a block, and 2 digs, while senior Jenna McLean contributed with 8 attacks and 3 service points.
Coach Davis took a moment to express gratitude to the seniors who will be moving on, recognizing their invaluable contributions. She also extended her appreciation to the team’s parents, highlighting the vital support network that plays a pivotal role in nurturing young athletes.
West Bladen, which finished 3rd in the Southeastern Athletic Conference, concluded their season with an 11-12 record. This marks a competitive season for the Knights, where they exhibited their mettle and secured a spot in the NCHSAA playoffs.
While the scoreboard might have favored Camden County, the indomitable spirit and determination of the West Bladen Knights shone brightly on the court. The Knights left an enduring impression with their tenacity and sportsmanship, promising a bright future for their volleyball program. Their journey in the NCHSAA Volleyball position Playoffs may have come to an end, but their resilience and camaraderie have surely set the stage for even greater achievements in the seasons to come.
