A Good Few Days

10-3-2007

Saturday I spent my time at the Cobb County Tournament. I saw Walker get blown out by Lassiter. What a difference a year makes. Walker has some scrappy players and a solid Outside Hitter in Sarah Kelley, but losing some tremendous seniors and their starting setter definitely hurts. Coach Dan Clotfelter does a good job and will surely have the program back up to speed soon. I have seen his middle school play and he has some good potential in that group. Lassiter is much improved from earlier in the season. The setter has learned to set the ball higher for 6'5" Middle Blocker Taylor Montgomery. While Taylor isn't overpowering she hits at a steep angle that is tough to defend. The Trojans also receive a boost from Junior OH Hannah Reinke. Hannah is one of those girls that every team needs. She does all the little things that go unnoticed by most. She is also pretty steady and has a good head for the game.

The surprise of the day was Kell defeating Pope. Pope has to pick up there ball control if they are gonna go to the finals this year. Kell played inspired volleyball. They have good middle hitters who terminate plays and they play very scrappy defense.

I also saw Kennesaw Mountain play Walton. My first chance to see Walton. I was a little disturbed at the Walton pre game warm up. I wasn't sure if I was at a volleyball match, a cheerleading contest, or a who can scream MINE the loudest contest!!! Anyway Walton was scrappy in game one and forced Kennesaw to play a lot of balls until they made mistakes. Kennesaw looked sloppy in game one but turned it up in game two where they spanked Walton. Game one tells me early exit from state playoffs. Game two tells me final four. Which team shows up I guess we will see.

The remainder of the day took me to training. I love working with kids and helping them get better and achieve their goals.

Tuesday took me to Norcross to see Sandy Creek, Mill Creek, and the host Norcross. I was very impressed with the Blue Devils of Norcross. Senior Outside Hannah Nelson is very good. She played solid defense, passed well out of serve receive, and can terminate in front and back row attempts. She needs to be a little more consistent out of system and with her serve. Setter Rachel Monteagudo did a great job. She has good instincts and when she doesn't Hannah tells her what to do!!!

Mill Creek struggled most of the night. They had good play from outside hitter Olivia Day. She has a good arm and hits a good high ball.

Sandy Creek is as good as advertised although missing a couple of starters. They were able to grind out wins in both matches despite being down 2 players. The Haney kid might be the most explosive player in the state, however she struggles on out of system sets.

Well I'm still working on some of my lists. They will be out soon. If you have any recommendations please pass them my way. See you in the gym.