An even split
The past two weeks and have been a learning experience for the Lady Eagles. They traveled to Arizona on September 8-10 for a six-game weekend. Returning to Price, on September 16-17, they were able to put together some strong games against the Utah State University Eastern alumni team and an All-Star team from the Salt Lake area.
This archived article was written by: Katie Bigelow
The past two weeks and have been a learning experience for the Lady Eagles. They traveled to Arizona on September 8-10 for a six-game weekend. Returning to Price, on September 16-17, they were able to put together some strong games against the Utah State University Eastern alumni team and an All-Star team from the Salt Lake area.
In Arizona, the Eagles won three and lost three games. Instead of the typically match being best of three games out of five, the tournament in Arizona was the best of three games. “We were behind on one game, but we came back and won,” said Coach Chelsey Warburton. They beat South Mountain 2-1. USU Eastern lost in the first set 25-20. Into the second and third set Eagles won 26-24, and 15-10. In the Scottsdale game, the Eagles won the first two sets 25-23 and 25-21. Pima was also a good match for the Eagles winning both sets 25-22 and 25-10. They lost to Phoenix, Chandler Gilbert, and Glendale. In the Phoenix game, USU Eastern won the first set 25-17, lost the next two 17-25 and 9-15. Chandler Gilbert won the first set to our 22-25; we then won the second set 25-16, and lost in the third set 11-15. Glendale won both sets, 25-23 and 25-18. Coach Warburton commented, “We are still mixing it up a little, but mostly on the right side.”
The team is still struggling a little with injuries. “Our setter Somara is out with a foot injury. The other injuries we are working through to rehabilitate,” said Coach Warburton.
On Friday, September 16, the Lady Eagles took the court against the alumnae of USU Eastern. Those who returned to contend with the Eagles were, Julia Potts, Megan Garvin Urbanik, and many other players who had played here about two or four years ago. The Eagles won in four games against the alumnae team. “The girls played good together. We were able to get everyone in to see time. It also allowed us time to work on rotations,” said Coach Warburton. The Eagles won the first two sets 25-15 and 25-17. They lost the third 23-25. To finish the game they won the fourth set 25-19.
After Friday’s win, the Lady Eagles had a quick turnaround to prepare for Saturday’s game against the Salt Lake All-Star team.
Early on Saturday, the Lady Eagles were able to get a quick work out in to prepare for the All-Star team. The All-Star team was made up of previous players from University of Utah and other division one schools. Coach Warburton commented, “Some of the girls we played have previous played or still play at division one schools. A few were also All American from division one schools.”
The Lady Eagles put up a good battle against the tough experienced All-Star team. The Ladies won the first set 25-22. They then lost the second set 18-25. Winning the third with 27-25, but losing in the fourth and fifth 19-25 and 10-15, they still put up a good fight. “Our girls played great and didn’t back down. We were able to battle the whole match, and not let down,” Coach Warburton said.
The team stats have the Eagles averaging 8.5 kills, 7.2 sets, and blocking 2.5. Eagles have strong girls, who fight hard on the court. There are many strong hitters and each girl contributes well to the team.
This Saturday, September 24, the Lady Eagles take on Colorado Northwestern Community College here at the USU-Eastern Campus. The team hopes you will support the Lady Eagles. Students with an ID card get in free. Tickets prices are $5 for general admission, children age 6-12 are $3, children five and under are free. Enjoy a bag of popcorn and cheer on your Lady Eagles.
