New Manchester varsity volleyball player Destinee Griffin warms up before a playoff game last week at Allatoona High School.
While on their fall break, the Lithia Springs and New Manchester volleyball teams traveled to Allatoona High School along with all the other schools in the 5-AAAAA region to compete for several spots in the state playoffs.
Lithia Springs played two teams during those two days – Villa Rica Wildcats and Hiram Hornets.
On day 1 of the tournament, the Lady Lions showed up only 20 minutes prior to game time, with very little time to warm up, but it wasn’t much of a factor as they played Villa Rica.
“We don’t play until 5:30, we’re fine,” head volleyball coach Joseph Johnstone said.
Even with little practice time, Lithia Springs was able to defeat Villa Rica in the first match 2-0. Winning the first game by just two points, 26-24, the Lady Lions stirred up some more strength and beat the Wildcats by a much larger margin, 25-10.
On day 2, Lithia Springs played only one team. As it faced Hiram, they put in a good effort, but weren’t able to pull off the win as they lost game one 25-20 and game two 25-23.
The Lady Lions finished their season 12-7, including the region tournament.
While the ladies of Lithia Springs could not advance, neither could the ladies of New Manchester.
Competing in only one game during the tournament against the Woodland Wildcats, New Manchester put up a fight, but ultimately did not make it.
The Lady Jags were able to win the first game 25-21, forcing Woodland to a comeback.
In game two Woodland took the victory in a close and long, drawn-out game 30-28. Set in a tie, New Manchester had one more chance to advance closer to playoffs, but fell short as it was defeated 25-18.
With this being their second year as a school, the Lady Jags are just beginning on their athletic journey. With only four seniors on a team of 13 players, the underclassmen will be able to take this experience and try again next season for a chance at the state playoffs.
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