Lady Tigers triumph over Lady Miners

The Encampment Lady Tiger and Hanna, Elk Mountain, Medicine Bow (HEM) Lady Miner volleyball teams faced off on August 28 in the Encampment Gym. The Lady Miners came in fierce to their first match of the season scoring a fast 10 points.

Not to be deterred, the Lady Tigers encouraged each other and started to find their footing in the first of five sets at Saturday's game.

Quickly shortening HEM's lead, the Lady Tigers showed their tenacity. Though the Lady Miners took the lead in the first set, ending at 20-25, the Encampment netters weren't going down without a fight.

A fierce match played by both teams lasting a full five sets, highlighted by long volleys. The second set was the Lady Tigers to claim, with a lead of three points, finishing at 25-22.

The Hanna Lady Miners were not letting the loss slow them down as the match continued neck and neck. Digging in their heels the Lady Miners took the third set leading by two, 23-25.

The Lady Tigers really found their footing during the fourth set. Demonstrating their teamwork by communicating to each other on the court, the Lady Tigers were gaining traction. Controlling the ball and team encouragement kept the Lady tigers in the lead. Ending the fourth set 26-24.

Head Coach Robin Brown said "We didn't come in with a lot of varsity experience, so it was wonderful to see some of the young athletes come out and get comfortable on the court."

With a small point difference in four of the sets at Saturday's match the stands were erupting with excitement at times. Though not quiet a rivalry match, fans from both sides packed the stands. Shouting encouragement and tips to both teams, fans were involved in Saturday's match.

Further showing their teams control of the ball, the Encampment Lady Tigers took the final set quickly. Winning the set 15-12. The first match played by the Lady Tigers this season was heated. The young team proved it has the skills needed to not only defend their court, but score as well.

"It was truly a team effort," said Coach Brown. "They went through the game winning and losing sets together."

Though mentioning the team had played better during practice, Brown said the team showed grit to get through with a win.

"Saturday's game gave us a good starting point to build off."

Landing a win against the HEM Lady Miners shows an exciting season is hopefully ahead for Lady Tiger Volleyball. Up next for the Encampment Lady Tigers is the Wyoming Indian tournament in Ethete beginning September 3 with times to be announced.