No Seniors, No Problem

The hard hitting Lady Leopards varsity volleyball team took to the court this season under first year manager and coach, Mr. John Tokish. They put up a record of 11-11 (.500), and though they had no seniors, there was no problem. Tokish, an experienced volleyball player/referee, had to take a group of young ladies who are hard hitting and give them the fight and will to win, with no seniors to take the lead roll and command of the team. Tokish looked to experienced juniors for the answer and to make their stand in the conference. Juniors consisted of Allie Adler, Amy Mikulich, Maleah Schiavone, Julia Rivera, Raven Watson, Haneen Kotb, and Marcy Dykes. Only one sophomore saw varsity action this year, and that was Lana Adi.

Many things were learned through the season. The most memorable win for the girls this season was against Struthers. The team lost to the Wildcats at home, and then turned around a few games after walking into Struthers with the Cats pride held high. The Wildcats thought it was going to be an easy win, but the Leopards stood strong and tall, beating the Cats in three games. Coach’s words of wisdom always come through to be true, “Be the first to eight points, then fifteen.”

The girls put up a valiant effort to hold on to a record of .500. Their hard work has been shown. Allie Adler a has earned her third year letter. Maleah Schiavone, Amy Mikulich, Raven Watson, and Marcy Dykes all earned their second year letter. Julia Rivera, Haneen Kotb, and Lana Adi all received their first letter for volleyball. Overall, the most improved player of the year was Amy Mikulich.

The team consisted of seven juniors and one sophomore, and they will return with one year already under their belts, and having seven seniors and a junior to take a hold of the All-American Conference.