Mississinewa’s team play a major factor in wins over Northfield, Southern Wells, Oak Hill

Throughout the early part of the season, the Indians have relied on steady team play rather than the efforts of one individual player.

It proved true once again on Wednesday night, as the Indians put forward another strong team effort in a four set win over the Northfield Norsemen.

“Overall, our passing tonight put us in a good position,” Coach Hope Coons said after the win. “Northfield’s defense was very consistent, so finding ways to put the ball down and finding ways to score was a key for us [throughout the match.]”

Halle Planck led the Indians with 14 kills, while Erika Foy finished with 13. Kenzie Skeens recorded a remarkable 47 assists, while Foy, Madison Stanley, and Emily Taylor finished with six digs each.

Mississinewa achieved victory number seven on Thursday night with another resounding win – this time a three set sweep of Southern Wells.

Though strong team volleyball has been the story of the Indians’ season so far, the older players stepping up, combined with the chemistry that has formed amongst the girls over the past year, has helped the Indians take the next step as a program.

“Our leadership [has been the biggest factor in our early success,]” Coons said. “[Furthermore,] having varsity players that played together for the most part last year has been huge for us.”

Taylor Walker finished with 13 kills, while Foy ended up with 12 kills and seven digs. Skeens had another great night distributing the ball, finishing with 43 assists in the victory.

Against Grant County rival Oak Hill on Monday evening, the Indians’ strong team play continued, as the Indians dispatched the Golden Eagles in three sets.

“The girls are continuing to trust the process,” Coons said. “They stick to what they know, and [they] stick to what works. That has helped them be successful.”

Rivalry games always have extra meaning, as teams vie for bragging rights within the county. It’s competitive and the teams play hard, but that is what makes it enjoyable for the coaches and players.

“[Coach White] and I talked before the game, and it’s a [whole new ballgame] once conference play starts,” Coons said. “It’s a fun rivalry, and a joy to be a part of.”

The Indians are 8-1 and playing some great volleyball, but the work is never done – and Coons wants her team to keep focused as the season progresses.

“Our coaching staff is really proud of the girls,” Coons said. “This is something that we have known they are capable of, and they are starting to realize the level at which they can play. We still have a long way to go. We aren’t there yet. We haven’t arrived, so we need to continue to [make improvements] in practice and demand more of ourselves every day.”

Foy and Halle Planck finished with 13 kills each, while Skeens racked up 39 assists in the Indians’ victory.

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