Leipsec sweeps the Blackbirds; a look back on a fine season

By NORRIS LEDYARD

Expositor Staff Writer

ELIDA - The Pettisville Blackbirds faced a very formidable opponent in the Leipsic Lady Vikings, ranked eight in the state Wednesday evening. With a senior laden roster, the Vikings swept the Blackbirds 25-16; 25-12 and 25-11. Leipsic (24-2) advance to play Marion Local (23-3), who defeated Tiffin Calvert.

"We did not have enough consistency at the net to get them (the Vikings) tonight," said Head Coach John Horning. "When we served, we were one and done and could not mount much offense. Their power lines were very strong. I felt that we were a little flat and had some indecision. That is not a good combination against a strong opponent."

During the third game, the entire Pettisville team had one serve before Leipsec broke service, with the exception of Tessa Yoder and Katie Weber. Weber had a block on Shannon Nadler for a Blackbird point during Tessa Yoder's serve and Weber had a serve that resulted in a point as Jessica Schroeder's kill shot was long.

Looking back at the season just completed, the coach felt that they met their goals and then some. "We wanted to build respect for volleyball in Pettisville and the community responded," added Horning. "The student and adult support throughout the tournament was approaching the support that basketball receives and that is outstanding. This team appreciates the support that we received. My assistant coaches, Megan Martz and Tim Myers, are certainly part of this team effort. We are dedicated to continue our progress.

"After our win over Antwerp, I noticed some young children playing in a yard," said Horning with a grin. "Usually, it is a football or soccer ball. They were playing with a volleyball. It is a great feeling to see the game of volleyball growing."

In regards to the four seniors, the coach is very pleased with all the contributions they made this year, which made the entire season special.

"Keely Geringer had an outstanding season. While she may be quiet, she is very team focused," said Horning. "Karina Rohrer-Meck was a real leader, on and off the court. She has a deep love of the game and worked extremely hard."

"Our leading shot blocker, Haly Nofziger, worked as hard as any player on this team," said Horning. "She has a great kill shot and a fine service game."

"Katie Weber was our leaper. She did great things all over the floor. Whether she was diving for a dig, slamming a kill shot or driving our underclassmen to a practice, she was constantly and consistently hustling for the team," said Horning, looking a little misty-eyed as he described the past play of his seniors.

"The entire team was a coach's dream and I consider myself very fortunate to be part of it. I believe we have a strong foundation to build on for the future of volleyball here at Pettisville."