This past weekend, the Varsity volleyball team traveled to Coal Ridge High School for a tournament. These games were some of their last, of the season and ever for seniors Ava Walitt and Lauren Hardin.
On Friday, as their opening game, the Bulldogs faced Pagosa Springs. They completely annihilated Pagosa, winning the sets 2-0. The second game was against Glenwood Springs where Palisade had control over the court. The final score was 2-0.
On Saturday, our bulldogs played against Delta and Battle Mountain. Each player had their moments to shine and showcase their skills. They have been crafting and perfecting this whole season which paid off. Addie Ritterbush leads the Bulldogs with 3.8 kills per set. Her stats are insane while also leading the team with 79 blocks. Lauren Hardin is a senior and advanced varsity player. Hardin reflects on the first matchup with Delta. “For the first part of the tournament, we did best two out of three for two sets. The first game of the day was against Delta at 8 a.m. It was rough. We went 30-28 in the first set which we lost. However, we won the second set. We went to a third set, which they only go to fifteen. We lost 15-12. This means we didn’t qualify for the championship round.” This loss was unfortunate but did not bring our bulldogs down. Every player has an immeasurable amount of strength and determination. Hardin exclaims, “So, we played whoever was next in the bracket, which was Battle Mountain. We won three out of five and beat them in three. It was good!” You win some, you lose some. However, there is always something to be proud of. “I only missed one serve out of the whole day. I got more aces than I usually do. There were some good digs,” admits Hardin. After this past weekend’s tournament, there is only one more game. The volleyball team qualified for regionals and is currently ranked #6 in Colorado. Hardin concludes, “I’m sad but I’m ready to be in college. It’s just another milestone I passed to get to college. Volleyball season is practically over, I only have five months left of school now.” Good job to our Bulldogs! This whole season has been spectacular. Many victories proved our Bulldog pride and fierce athletes. We wish you the best of luck at Regionals.
