Blue Hill—In its third season at the varsity level, the George Stevens Academy volleyball team appears to have found its stride.
After going 0-14 last season, the Eagles have already registered two wins just four matches into the season, defeating Sumner Memorial High School twice in six days, 3-0 both times. Their losses have come to Brewer High School, which competes in Class B, and Bucksport High School. The Bucksport match went to five sets, with a 3-2 final score with the advantage to Bucksport.
One contributing factor to the early success is the confidence of the players, according to coach Bonnie Marckoon.
The experience of some of the upperclassmen, including Sophie Peasley and co-captains Lillie Maier and Erika Hipsky, has also benefited the Eagles.
“Many of our returning team members have taken advantage of camps and club volleyball opportunities. These have improved their overall skill sets,” said Marckoon.
The freshman class is also providing an extra level of athleticism to the court. Abbie Keenan, Evelyn Dagan and Sophia Biggie are all freshmen with a high level of volleyball exposure, who will “give the team a real boost this season and for the years to come,” said Marckoon.
Peasley and Ashley Barnes have been big contributors on the back line with improved passing skills, and Juliette Claybaugh has been tough at the net, according to their coach.
Marckoon said that there are still a few things that need to be improved upon as the season continues, including on court communication, reading the ball on the other side of the net, and having trust in each other to make a play.
The team is up for the challenge and has worked hard to continue to get better. “Everyone comes to practice willing to work hard and be challenged,” said Marckoon.
The 2018 GSA volleyball team. Courtesy of George Stevens Academy
The 2018 George Stevens Academy volleyball team includes, from left, Mara Pickering, Ashlee Barnes, Juliette Claybaugh, Lillie Maier, Erika Hipsky, Sophia Biggie, Abbie Keenan, Evelyn Dagan, Sophie Peasley, Lucy Morison. Missing from photo is Elia O’Hara.