Mavericks Win first SPC Counter Match in 3

It was déjà vu all over again as St. John’s Girl’s Volleyball team secured their first SPC counter match win against St. Mary’s Hall in San Antonio on Saturday.  Not comfortable coasting along with a commanding lead, various players “gifted” the Barons with serves into the net to keep the match close and interesting for the fans.  Each game stayed tight with lead changes and ties until the final rotation which in each match put Meryl Gibbs at the serving line.  With solid serves in that final rotation and strong teamwork from the whole team, the Mavs showed grit and determination and took control of each game in the final few points.  The Mavs finished the three games 25-22, 25-21 and 25-22.

The St. Mary’s Hall Barons are a very competitive team with many top club players from the San Antonio area.  They were hard-hitting and hard-serving, but the Mavs played just as hard and very smart and adjusted their play to overcome all of St. Mary’s strengths.  Kate Bres had a great match and earned the Mavs many points with her dominating serves and right side assists.  Sisters Jane and Caroline Labanowski were a force at the net and Jane led in kills for the match.  Co-captains Angela Ha and Alex Beckham led by example with solid play and an unwavering spirit to keep the team motivated. Meryl Gibbs was block leader.  Avery Landrum had another successful turn as setter – keeping the Mavs poised for solid attacks.

With a delayed start (refs were late), a steamy gym, and a competitive match, the Mavs were happy to pack up and leave after 3 games with several opting for the bus ride home vs. parents’ cars so they could stretch out and sleep.  The Mavs are back in action on Tuesday vs. Episcopal when they play at home.