Volleyball Rolls Past Alumni

Salem-News.com Sports

LA GRANDE - The Mountaineers came out of the gates strong Saturday night and rolled past Eastern Oregon’s Alumni in four games.

In front of a Quinn crowd of 106 the Mountaineers powered their way through the first two games 30-24 and 30-14. Hard hitting and hustle were abundant no matter which six Head Coach Kaki McLean had on the court throughout the night.

What appeared to be a three and out for the Alumni ended when the former Eastern Oregon athletes rallied back to take the third game 28-30. The Mountaineers bounced back and comfortably closed out the night winning the fourth game 30-12.

"The team did a great job tonight," McLean commented after the game. "Going into the match our goal was to come together as a team and learn more about each other. I feel we accomplished this goal and found out how each individual responded in a game setting."

Among many great efforts, the Mountaineers were led by junior transfer Chelsea Lally and freshman Grace Deboodt. McLean was pleased with the play of the two new faces representing the team this year. “Chelsea put out a great effort tonight. She was hustling all around the court and did not let a play die. That's all you can ask for from a player."

"Grace did a great job as well. She was consistently aware of were the defense was playing and went after the ball hard every time."

Although McLean was pleased with the overall effort, she still used this game as a learning tool going into this season. "We still have some adjustments to be made and that showed tonight with our defense. We will work hard in practice and make these adjustments before we head to Jamestown [North Dakota]. Overall the team did a nice job adjusting no matter which six were on the court."

This years Alumni team was led by Jeanna Romer, Shawna Rahn, Misty Jenkin, Cynthia Ruffy, Norma Shields, Marcy Hayes, and Rhianna Stafford. McLean was very appreciative of the Alumni's time and efforts. "They may be a year or more out of playing shape but they still put up great efforts and tested our team. We appreciate them taking the time to participate in this annual match because it helps prepare us for the upcoming season."

The Mountaineer's next home match is against Blue Mountain Community College on August 29 at 6:00 pm. League play begins September 1 when Eastern Oregon hosts Corban College at 7:00 pm at Quinn Coliseum.

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