Teamwork was on full display for Faith Christian Academy in its JV match on Tuesday with Geneva South's seventh-grade A squad. The Falcons got key contributions from all seven players who suited up for Faith's 25-15, 25-21 victory in the friendly confines of FCA's gym. Congratulations, Falcons!
After a tentative start, FCA broke open a close first set by turning an 8-7 lead into a 20-10 advantage. Faith overwhelmed the Vikings using accurate passing to setter, strong serving, good organization and hustle, terrific court coverage and communication and solid setting and spiking. particularly from Liz Watson, who recorded six kills. FCA registered 25 three-contact series in the first set, a season best for the JV, with Jessica Kohlmeyer and and Liz delivering five passes to setter apiece.
Grace Hansen pushed FCA to a 10-7 second-set lead behind 6-for-6 serving with three service winners. Faith's lead grew to as much as 18-13 before South rallied to tie the set at 20-20, but FCA regained control behind a pair of service winners from Gigi and a beautiful dig by Corrin Schulze that led to a kill from Jessica Chiaro. Mackenzie VanDerSnick added a service winner and Jess Kohlmeyer landed two service winners in their first match serving overhand. Way to finish the match with determination, enthusiasm and confidence, Falcons! With the win, the team also earned cupcakes again on Cupcake Day -- and potentially with sprinkles :). Liz won the best attitude award, and Jess Kohlmeyer earned the hustle award.
In the first match, Faith's varsity team fell behind early to Geneva South's 8th-grade A squad and dropped the first set 25-8. The Vikings then put FCA in a 16-6 hole before the Falcons rallied, tying the score at 20-20 behind solid serving from Ally Will, Lauren Caprini and Nicki Smith, kills by Ally, Gigi Crescenzo and Nicki, assists from Lauren and Jessica Smith and a series of digs from Gigi, Jessica and Nicki. But Geneva closed out the match winning the last five points to quell another great comeback. South has a very strong team, and Faith learned some good lessons heading into practice on Wednesday and a Thursday doubleheader with Haines' 8A and 8B squads. A good, energetic practice and a reminder to play aggressively no matter the opponent and they'll be just fine.
Faith Christian is now 26-4 on the season. The varsity is 15-3, and the JV is 11-1. More importantly, the Falcons are shining for Christ, representing the school proudly, learning volleyball and life and having fun.
