The Warriors are currently ranked second for Class A in the PVCA state rankings. The Warriors have faced off against eight opponents in the first two weeks of the season. Their journey began with a tournament at Forest Hills High School on August 24th, followed by the start of their regular matches.
At the Forest Hills tournament, the Warriors finished the day with a 7-2 record, ultimately falling to West Shamokin in the quarterfinals. The Warriors only lost one set in pool play, to Northern Cambria, which resulted in the Warriors having the third seed in the gold bracket. Shasta Manahan led the team for serving percentage, serving 100%, and not missing a serve all day.
The Warriors played their first conference match on Thursday, August 29th, against the Curwensville Tide. The Warriors won this match in three sets with scores of 25-8, 25-13, and 25-12. Sophomore right-side hitter Haley Woodling was a stand-out performer, with ten kills on the night.
To start the next week, September 3rd, the Warriors faced off against Claysburg Kimmel. The team carried their energy from the Curwensville game, winning again in three sets. The scores of the sets were 25-6, 25-14, and 25-6. Senior middle hitter, Makiya Mack, led the Warriors that night with ten kills.
The Warriors played their last game of the week against Juniata Valley on Thursday, September 5th, and won three sets to none. The Warriors started the game with a 20-point service run from Woodling, which led the Warriors to win the first set, 25-4. Although the Hornets battled more in the second set, the Warriors still came out on top, winning 25-19. The Warriors then finished the game, winning the last set 25-8.
The Warriors are looking to continue their success from last year being ICC champions, District 6 champions, and PIAA State runner-ups. Although the Warriors lost five seniors, they are returning eight letter winners from last season. Seniors Mack and Hannah Ishler lead the Warriors. Reflecting on the season’s start, Mack shared, “Everyone has been doubting us because we lost five players, but we’ve been stepping onto the court stronger than ever.”
The Warriors play their next match at home on Tuesday, September 10th, against the Moshannon Valley Knights. It is Army National Guard night, and fans can wear camo to show their support.
