Mules stop Tigers, lose to Vikes in volleyball

The Wahkiakum Mule varsity volleyball team split matches with Central League opponents this past week.

On Tuesday, the Mules lost the first match but won the next three to top visiting Napavine 3-1. Scores were 22-25, 25-18, 25-13 and 26-24.

"Amy Gawith led us with 12 kills, said Coach Jeff Rooklidge. "Blaine Land added 11 kills; Brieanna Olsen four; and Caitlin Nicolazzi had five.

Ashley Silva had three blocks, and Nicolazzi had five stuff blocks. Gawith had a good match passing, and Haylee Budd helped provide some strong passes off our serve receive.

"We won the match with outstanding serving. Olsen and Land both had five aces, and Madison LaBerge and Nicolazzi also added five aces each. The team showed good determination to come back after dropping the first set."

Last Thursday, the Mules traveled to Mossyrock and lost to the Vikings 3-2. Scores were 15-25, 20-25, 25-23, 29-27, and 13-15.

"Both teams fought hard during the match," Rooklidge said. "The last three sets were as close as it can get with both teams fighting hard for the win.

"Land had another huge night on offense with 18 kills. Gawith made seven, and Silva added 4 kills. LaBerge and Olsen each added two kills.

"Olsen worked hard as a setter and dished out 25 assists. Silva made four blocks and Rachel Patching had three. Halie Quigley and Budd led the team in passing percentage. Olsen and Land gave us excellent serving."

The Mules head to Morton/White Pass tonight (Thursday) and entertain Pe Ell next Tuesday in the final home match of the season. They are at Toutle Lake on October 28 and start district tournament competition October 30 at a site to be determined.