MHS - Volleyball / September 1, 2024 By Kasey McDowell
The Mulvane Wildcats varsity volleyball team opened up their 2024-25 season at the Wichita North Invitational, finishing with a commendable 4-1 record and solidifying their reputation as a formidable force on the court.
The Wildcats opened the tournament with an impressive display of dominance, decisively defeating Winfield with scores of 25-9 and 25-20. Their strong start set the tone for the day, as they continued to build momentum with another convincing win over Wichita Heights, clinching the matches 25-13 and 25-18.
In their third match, Mulvane faced off against Salina Central. The Wildcats breezed through with scores of 25-10 and 25-15, demonstrating their ability to control the game from start to finish.
The Wildcats' next challenge came against Ark City, a team that tested their resilience. Mulvane took the first set 25-16 but faced a setback as Ark City fought back to win the second set 21-25. Undeterred, the Wildcats regrouped and clinched the final set 25-18, showing their grit and adaptability under pressure.
The only blemish on Mulvane's otherwise stellar performance was a hard-fought loss to the hosts, Wichita North. The Wildcats fell in three sets, with scores of 25-19, 20-25, and 15-25. The Wildcats finished as tournament runner-ups.
The Wildcats were led by senior hitters Makenna Treat and Lexi Cunningham, who rarely, if ever, left the court all day. Also putting in solid performances were hitters Rachael Langholz (So.), Thai Heersche (So.), and Teagan Heersche (Jr.). Junior Jaysa Holman subbed in and out all day and did a great job as the libero. Juniors Charlie Richardson and Kylie Schwanke did a great job as the setters for the Wildcats. In her first games back after a knee injury last year, junior Jacenda Jennings served as the Wildcats defensive specialist.
The Wildcats will have a couple of tough matches tomorrow as they travel to Andale to face the Indians and McPherson in a triangular.
