Mule volleyball team opens with two wins

Photo: Kaylee Bryant sends a hard hit over the net in the Mules' 3-0 match win over Naselle on September 12. Photo by Diana Zimmerman.

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Wahkiakum Mule volleyball started their season with a win against long time rival Naselle on September 12. They won easily in three straight sets, 25-11, 25-9, 25-9.

Kim Eaton, coach for the Naselle team, said that the Comettes had their first game a few days earlier and were used to a slower tempo game. “We’ve got to learn to switch up the tempo,” Eaton remarked.

“It was pretty good for a first game,” Mule Coach Kayli Hurley said. “We obviously have some work to do. Our offense needs shoring up, but we’ve gotten better at serve receive.”

Hurley singled out Kaylee Bryant, who had nine kills and three blocks, and Maya Stanley for her defensive play.

“And,” Hurley said, “everyone came off the bench and got some playing time.”

On Tuesday, the Mules beat visiting Onalaska in three straight games, 25-21, 26-24, 25-22.

Coach Hurley praised Tori Wegdahl and Baylee Olsen for their work at the net. Wegdahl had 16 kills. Olsen had seven kills and three blocks. Hurley also singled out Tyra Elliott who “provided solid serve receive and defense for her team.”

“We had a hard time shaking off the slow start, but played well when it was needed," Hurley said. "We’re trying to get to the point where we are earning our points instead of just winning."

The Mule varsity and alumni will play an exhibition match this Saturday, 6 p.m. in the WHS gym.