The Burlington-Edison Tigers strolled into Arlingtons gymnasium with a look of confidence on their faces for the Sept. 6 match. Then they proceeded to spike, dig and ace their way to a quick three-set victory over the Eagles 25-7, 25-11, 25-10.
Arlington clearly has work to do to improve their chances this season. Middle blocker Breanna Covey finished with some good spikes for the team but she needed more help around her.
Arlington struggled to get the ball to setter Kyra Prause with a clean first pass. Prause found herself racing to all parts of the court for her sets. When Prause did get a fair shot at a set her spikers missed long or were blocked.
We need to improve our hitting and blocking, said Coach Cari Britt. We will continue to work on our hitting and blocking skills. With time and repetition they will improve.
Arlington also failed to serve effectively, resulting many times in unforced service errors and free points for Burlington.
Arlington did appear to have at least equal athletes to the Burlington girls, but they must fine tune their approach if they are to compete in the rugged Wesco North.
The team never gave up and they fought for every point. They showed the potential to play at a much higher level both as a team and as individuals noted Britt.
Britt herself was coaching in her first game as a varsity head coach. She appeared at ease on the bench and did not panic or get frustrated while the team struggled to score points.
I was nervous, excited and optimistic, Britt said following the match. The preparation is completely different. When I was a an assistant the scope of my responsibility was smaller. Now as a head coach I am in charge of creating a successful program.
It wont happen overnight, but it appeared that her demeanor and knowledge of the game were ample to lead the Eagles to future success.