The Oak Hall Eagles volleyball team defeated the Saint Francis Catholic Wolves in straight sets Tuesday. The Eagles improve to 9-2 on the year and avoid a three-game skid.
Athleticism Pays Off
Juniors Cassidy McDonald (setter) and Hannah Timm (outside hitter) were all over the score sheet as the Eagles took an early 13-2 lead in the first set.
Eagles #6 Hannah Timm with massive kill to put Oak Hall up 13-4. pic.twitter.com/uR6CDPE6SA
— Riley (@rileyorovitz) September 10, 2024
Despite a strong run, the Wolves put up a fight and pulled off a circus-like save. Following a powerful Eagle spike, the ball ricocheted off of junior Hailey Schoster’s foot, allowing the Wolves (1-5) to reassemble and win the point.
The Eagles took the first set 25-5.
Coaching is Key
The Eagles coach Perry McDonald maintains a young roster that is off to a hot start.
McDonald, in his fifth season at Oak Hall, has plenty of direction to give his players as he is not new to the sport. He has been coaching volleyball since 1996 and his experience is paying off.
McDonald said he is proud of his team for showing resilience throughout the match.“The kids came through and had a lot of fun and played with good intensity,” he said.
The “fun” was evident when Cassidy McDonald made multiple high IQ plays from the setter position. Her efforts led the Eagles to a dominant 25-8 second set.
Oak Hall takes a two-set lead with a 25-8 victory. pic.twitter.com/Udh4YmhfJ9
— Riley (@rileyorovitz) September 10, 2024
Special Season
Entering play Tuesday, the Eagles were on the wrong side of a two-match stretch. Midway through the season they have only conceded two sets. Their nine wins have been products of all 14 players on the roster.
The Eagles outscored the Wolves 25-14 in the third and final set in relentless fashion.
Oak Hall defeats Saint Francis in straight sets and move on to 9-2 on the year. pic.twitter.com/vKIqyNPEqU
— Riley (@rileyorovitz) September 11, 2024
“For us it is all about getting better. I’m hopeful that we will be very competitive in our district and will be able to win,” McDonald said.
Up Next
The Eagles travel to Countryside Christian (4-6) on Thursday for a 6:15 p.m. match.