The 2018 Potomac Pioneers Volleyball Team. Back (L-R): Anna France, Penelope Russell, Lillie Leathers, Ashbeigh Hall (received Outstanding Athleticism award), Lauren Nordberg, Kaitlyn Henry, Leah Nelson, Lily VanGrinsven holding Kilty Hanson. Front (L-R): Maci Flomer (seated), Jaylee Zander holding Gabrielle Henry, Brynn Nordberg and Millie France holding Kaycee Salter (named Rookie of the Year). Not pictured Morgan O'Hara and Mila Yedinak.
POTOMAC - Coached by teachers Christi Taillefer and Ashley Olsen, 17 Potomac Pioneers turned out and played for the volleyball season. The coaches said the season went well and that the players demonstrated a drive to work together as a team.
"The players invested the time and energy to develop a positive working dynamic," said coach Olsen.
There were nine players on the A team and 10 players on the B team divvied up between fifth- eighth graders. Two players played both A and B.
The B Team ended their season with a 5-9 record. The A team headed into tournaments with a record of 8-1. The Pioneers placed third in the Copper League Small School Tournament.
During the daily practices the Pioneers learned foundational skills like setting, passing and serving. Olsen said the repetition was important to the players' developing confidence.
"We are grateful to the many parents and siblings who stepped in to help run drills and practices," said coach Olsen.
Scrimmaging was also put in play to prepare the players for working together.
Coaches Taillefer and Olsen said they saw evidence of individual players' skill growth, particularly with serving and passing throughout the season. They said many players showed a high level of determination and passion.
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