Volleyball team claims fourth straight league title

The Lady Outlaws volleyball team swept Junction City at home to secure the Sky-Em league title at home on Tuesday, October 25. Seniors Sydney Stoneback, Jenn Houk, Chelsea Reifschneider, Samantha Williamson, Lizzy Carhart, and Michaela Meeter were honored at the beginning of the match.

Sisters downed the visiting Tigers with scores of 25-21, 25-17 and 25-17 and wrapped up league play with a perfect 10-0 record.

The Outlaws jumped out to a quick 11-4 lead in the first set and quickly extended the lead to a 22-14 advantage. Junction City dug in and put up four straight points to narrow the lead to 22-18. The Tigers fought hard, but the Outlaws prevailed with a 25-21 win.

Libero Sydney Stoneback passed a nearly flawless game.

"Sydney made two amazing, sprawling digs that showed the heart she plays with," said Coach Diane Bremer.

The first half of game two was a very tight contest with no more than a three-point lead either way.

Scores were tied nine different times before the Outlaws finally pulled away and won by eight. Sisters took care of business in the final set to record the sweep.

Carhart, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in the Elmira game, came onto the floor twice to serve for the Outlaws in game three. As Lizzy walked onto the court she was greeted with a loud and supportive roar from the crowd.

"She (Carhart) proceeded to serve an ace, and at that moment I got teary," said Bremer. "It is tough to not have her on the court, but as a team captain, she will continue her duties and support from the sidelines."

Bailey Bremer led the Outlaws with eight kills on the night, followed by Chelsea Reifschneider, who finished with seven. Megan Minke had seven kills and four blocks, and Michaela Meeter recorded four kills and five blocks.

"Megan and Michaela were a solid wall in the last four points of the match," stated Bremer. 

Sydney Stoneback was dig leader on the night, with 15. Shelbi Thompson recorded seven digs and Bremer and Williamson had four each. Shannon Fouts dished out 28 assists and had two blocks in the match. Fouts also had a good night defensively and logged 10 digs.

Sisters had a good performance at the service line and tallied eight aces against the Tigers.