George Stevens Academy senior Mara Pickering puts the ball over the net for a point during a match against North Yarmouth Academy on September 14. By Monique Labbe
Blue Hill—It has been a hot start for the Eagle volleyball team of George Stevens Academy. The team has managed three wins in as many contests to begin the 2019 season, and notched two of those wins on Saturday, September 14, with 3-0 wins over North Yarmouth Academy and Lake Region.
Bucksport High School hosted the two southern Maine teams in an all-day affair.
The Eagles began the day against the Panthers of North Yarmouth, and shot out to an early 5-1 lead in the first set. North Yarmouth crept back to take a 12-10 lead over GSA, but the Eagles collected themselves on the court to regain the lead. Better on-court communication allowed GSA to take the first set, 25-18.
George Stevens Academy sophomore Evelyn Dagan serves from the baseline during a match against North Yarmouth Academy on September 14. By Monique Labbe
The second set was a closer contest and saw several long rallies to secure points. The score was tied on four separate occasions, but North Yarmouth went up 24-21 and was looking at set point. The Eagles responded by tying the score at 24-24 and went on to win the set 26-24.
A hot serving game by the GSA squad, and scrappy defense, was key in the third set, which the Eagles won 25-19.
George Stevens Academy recorded a win in straight sets over Lake Region of Naples later in the afternoon.
After playing three matches in four days, the team had a five-day break before their next scheduled game. That game is slated for Thursday, September 19, on the road against Jonesport. The Eagles will then travel to Calais on September 21 to take on the top-seeded Blue Devils. The next home match is scheduled for Monday, September 23, against Ellsworth.
Members of the George Stevens Academy volleyball team celebrate a point during the first set of a match against North Yarmouth Academy on September 14. By Monique Labbe
George Stevens Academy volleyball coach Aleta Schmidt watches a tense point during a match against North Yarmouth Academy on September 14. By Monique Labbe