The Hays Rebels volleyball team extended its winning streak to five matches Tuesday after a three-set sweep of the Del Valle Cardinals at Bales Gym.
The Rebels (21-16, 7-3 in district) got off to a fast start by dominating Del Valle 25-1 in the first set. Junior Ryann Torres, who finished with a game-high 22 assists, recorded seven of those during the first frame. Sophomore Madelyn Krafka notched three of her team high nine kills in the first set as well.
Play became much more competitive in the second set as the Cardinals capitalized on some sloppy play and errors from Hays. The Rebels led 20-18 at the first timeout.
Despite a resurgent Del Valle effort, Hays got back into rhythm and took the second set 25-18.
Hays, however, came out more focused in set three and won it 25-18.
On offense, the Rebels finished with 13 total aces in the match; Torres led the way with eight aces.
Five different Rebels recorded a block against Del Valle. Junior Sydney Collins had three total blocks, while sophomore Trista Strasser finished with two.
Senior Kayla Tello finished with a team high six digs, while sophomores Brooke Sheely and Emily Linder each had five.
“We were able to work on some things we need to be sharp with,” said Hays Head Coach Stephanie Coates. “Overall team effort I thought was good.”
Coates believes the momentum generated during the team’s win streak can have an positive effect going forward.
“Anytime you win a ball game is a great thing,” Coates said. “Putting some things in a row definitely gives us some momentum here in the second half of district.”
The Rebels now prepare for the second round of district play that begins with a pair of critical matches. Hays travels to play at Bowie Friday at 6:30 p.m., followed by an Oct. 2 home match against Westlake at 6:30 p.m.
