Mt. Carmel Volleyball Clinch Jr. NEC Titles For 7th And 8th Grade

From Coach Bonnie Keepes:

I’m very pleased to share that both teams went undefeated in the regular season conference play. 

The 8th grade group ended their last regular season game with a win at Olney to clench the title. They took each set 25-18, 25-15. The first set we came out with some hitting errors, and not playing as aggressively as I’d like, but they found their rhythm and cleaned up the errors. We gained big momentum into the second set, and all the girls were able to see court time tonight. I’m so proud of the way the girls have managed to stay tough, and just get the job done. Coming into regionals seeded first, they boast a 20 and 4 win loss record. 

For the stats Lyla Keepes 3 kills, 3 digs, Kyleigh Smith 6 kills, Evie Sellers 2 aces, 1 kill, 1 dig, 1 block, Riley Hershey 4 aces, Kinley Harris 3 assists, Leah Lewis 2 aces, 7 assists. 

The  7th grade group started with more hitting errors than we would like as well. They also got their momentum going, with big scoring runs, and did not look back. The girls had big set wins with scores of 25-13, 25-16. They played great together this season, and will be a team to watch next year. They close their season with a 17-2 record. Way to go ladies!! This group was also undefeated last year. Highlights were Alivia Peach 4 aces, 1 kill, 1 dig, 1 block, Journey Loudermilk 3 aces, 1 kill, Quincy Keepes 5 aces, 3 assists, Zoie Randall 2 aces, 1 kills, Bayley Andrews 1 ace, Gracee Haggard 1 kill, Ella Turner  4 aces, Ryleigh Gill 1 dig, Chloe Toutloff 1 ace.

The 6th grade group had a big lead the first set, but Olney shifted the momentum and took the set. Our girls came out strong the second set and won, but fell the third set. Set scores were 24-26L, 25-10W, 11-15L. Some stats to share are Opal Earnest with 2 aces, 4 assists, Macy Glenn 10 aces, 1 kill, Jersey Mounts 2 aces, 2 kills, Josie James 2 aces, Haleigh Prosise 2 aces, 1 kill, Farryn King 2 aces, 1 kill, Addie White 1 kill. Their season ended with 9 wins, 2 losses, and 4 split matches. Great job girls! 

I’m going to miss all the 6th and 7th graders in the gym, with 8th preparing for regionals. They are some amazing girls, who have grown so much in skill and confidence on the court. 

Next up the 8th grade will face Carmi for game one of the regional tournament on Thursday the 16th at 5 o’clock in Flora. The championship game will be played at 7 after the Olney vs Flora matchup at 6. Let’s go Aces! 

Mt. Carmel Aces Volleyball take down undefeated Fairfield to win conference

From Coach Bonnie Keepes:

Wow what an exciting night in the gym! 

The 8th grade group knew they had their work cut out for them. We had faced Fairfield before, during the championship match of the Albion tournament. We came up short both sets, but tonight was another story. 

The girls wanted this game, and they were fired up. We made so many great defensive plays, it was amazing. Weather Fairfield hit cross court or line we found a way to get it up. We were also attacking, and getting the offense going off the digs. 

They put on a great show for the fans, it was a battle! Fairfield had been undefeated going in with only 2 set losses, but had never lost a whole match. 

We were able to beat them in 2 sets winning 27-25, 25-20. It was an incredibly exciting moment for our girls, taking down an undefeated team.  The girls played their hearts out, and I’m so proud of them. Every single one of them had a great night. Our team unity was strong, and shined through. This win also clinched the conference championship for our Lady Aces. 

The takeaways are Lyla Keepes 2 aces, 1 kill, 6 digs, Kyleigh Smith 1 ace, 2 kills, 4 digs, 1 block, Evie Sellers 1 ace, 2 kills, 1 dig, Riley Hershey 3 kills, Kinley Harris 2 aces, 1 block, Leah Lewis 2 aces, 5 assists, 5 digs, Mercedes Dillard 1 dig. 

 The 7th grade group played well tonight. They were making smart choices at the net. They also had some great serve receive and digs. They were also able to take Fairfield in two sets winning 25-14, 25-19. 

Highlights were Alivia Peach had 4 aces, Journey Loudermilk 2 kills, Quincy Keepes 3 aces, 3 assists, 2 kills, Avery Coston 3 aces, 2 kills, Ella Turner  3 aces, Ryleigh Gill 1 kill.

The 6th grade team played a close first set dropping it 24-26, but then winning the second set 25-12. Some stats to share are Opal Earnest with 4 aces, 1 assist, Macy Glenn 3 aces, Jersey Mounts 2 aces, 1 kill, Annie Kanipe 1 dig, Josie James 4 aces, Haleigh Prosise 2 aces, 1 kill, Farryn King 2 aces, Erin Delong 1 ace. 

 

The Lady Aces only have one regular season match left facing Olney away next Monday. They are ranked first coming into the regional. It is next Thursday on March 16th in Flora starting at 5 playing Carmi first round. 

Jr. Lady Aces Sweep St. Mary's; Last Home Match Tonight

From Coach Bonnie Keepes:

Great night for Aces volleyball. All 3 teams took wins against St. Mary’s. 

The 6th grade started off the night working to pass, set, hit, and won at the first set with a score of 25-9. The second set the girls worked hard and took it 25-13. 

Some stats to share are Opal Earnest with 3 aces, 4 assists, Macy Glenn 4 aces, 1 Jersey Mounts 1 ace, 1 dig, Annie Kanipe 1 dig, Josie James 1 kill, Haleigh Prosise 1 kill, Addie White 1 dig. 

The 7th grade girls played well, keeping their serving and hitting errors down. They won both sets 25-12, 25-14.

Highlights were Alivia Peach had 4 kills, Journey Loudermilk 3 aces, 1 kill, Quincy Keepes 7 aces, 8 assists, Avery Coston 4 aces, Zoie Randall 2 aces, 3 kills, Bayley Andrews 1 assist, Ella Turner 1 kill. 

 The 8th grade match the girls started with some good attacking, but we started not moving out feet on serve receive, we are always working on this, so I hope we keep getting better at it going into regionals. The girls won both sets 25-16, 25-15. 

The takeaways are Lyla Keepes 3 aces, 5 kills, Kyleigh Smith 3 kills, Evie Sellers 2 kills, Riley Hershey 1 ace, 1 kill, 2 blocks, Kinley Harris 2 aces, 5 assists, Leah Lewis 3 aces, 7 assists, Mercedes Dillard 2 digs, Leila Sweeney 1 kill, Sophie Banks 1 ace. 

It was good to see all the teams get the W tonight. 

The girls play their last home game against Fairfield tonight. The 6th grade will start at 5:15. With 7th close to 6:00 and 8th close to 7:00.

Come watch some good Volleyball, and see Randy Beyke’s last time on the referee stand!

Mt. Carmel 6th Grade Volleyball team hosts, and wins Tournament

From Bonnie Keepes:

Saturday our girls played a round robin style tournament facing St. Mary’s 5th and separate 6th grade teams, along with Jasper Geff. 

Our girls started the first set against St. Mary’s 5th grade and won 25-11, 25-12. 

Some stats to share are Opal Earnest with 2 aces,  Macy Glen 6 aces, Josie James 3 aces, Haleigh Prosise 2 aces, Farryn King 3 aces.

Next up they beat St. Mary’s 6th 25-10, 25-20. Some stats to share are Opal Earnest with 8 aces, 2 assists, Macy Glenn 2 aces, Jersey Mounts 1 ace, 2 kills, Josie James 4 aces, 1 assist,  Haleigh Prosise 2 aces, Addie White 1 ace, Peyton Simpson 1 ace, 1 kill. Erin Delong 1 ace. 

The 3rd and final match was against Jasper Geff. The girls won in two sets, 25-19, 25-11. 

Opal Earnest with 3 aces, 1 assist, Macy Glenn 1 ace, Jersey Mounts 2 aces, 1 kill, Josie James 5 aces, Haleigh Prosise 2 aces, Addie White 1 ace. 

Kim was so proud of their teamwork, support of one another, and play. They had a great day! 

Jr. Lady Aces Bring Home Hardware From Fairfield

From Coach Bonnie Keepes:

The 8th grade team traveled to Fairfield for their 16 team invitational.


In our pool play we faced Carmi first and beat them 25-18, 25-23. For the first match of the day we didn’t start how I planned, but they fought for it and won.

For the Stats Lyla Keepes 2 aces, 2 kills, Kyleigh Smith 1 ace, 7 kills, 2 blocks, Evie Sellers 1 kill, Riley Hershey 5 aces, Kinley Harris 2 aces, 5 assists, Leah Lewis 2 aces, 2 assists.

Next in our pool we played Wayne City and lost 21-25, 16-25. We sat a match, and Wayne City played much scrappier defense than we did, and hitting errors kept us down. Lyla Keepes 1 dig, Kyleigh Smith  2 ace, 2 kills, 1 dig, Evie Sellers 2 kills, Riley Hershey 2 aces, Kinley Harris 3 assists, Leah Lewis 1 assists, Mercedes Dillard 2 digs.

Woodlawn was our 3rd pool play opponent. We had them on their heels the first set winning 25-11, we were attacking well and scoring quick. The second set we flipped and the beat us 16-25.

The top three teams in our pool all split sets very close, we only played 2 sets even with a split, and it came down to points for rankings. We ended up in the bronze bracket.

Our first match of bronze bracket play we faced Olney beating them 25-12, then dropping 27-29, and taking the third for the win 15-7.  We can start hot the first set and then get to settled in the second letting teams in.  Lyla Keepes 1 ace, 6 kills, 3 digs, Kyleigh Smith 3 aces, 6 kills, 1 dig, 1 block, Evie Sellers 3 kills, Riley Hershey 5 aces, 1 kill, Kinley Harris 2 aces, 5 assists, 2 kills, 1 dig, Leah Lewis 1 ace, 4 assists, Mercedes Dillard 3 aces.

The championship match of Bronze we played Ewing and won 25-12, 25-14. We were on the 5th match of the day so it was nice to play hard and beat them quick.

We had a really fun last match and earned some hardware!  So proud of their fight and finish, with first in bronze.

Takeaways Lyla Keepes 1 ace, 3 kills, 1 dig, Kyleigh Smith 3 aces, 7 kills, Evie Sellers 3 kills, Riley Hershey 1 kill, Kinley Harris 2 aces, 7 assists, Leah Lewis 4 assists, 1 dig, Mercedes Dillard 2 aces, Mylee Farmer 1 dig.

Girls Basketball All-Little Illini Conference

Girls Basketball All-Conference

First Team

Adi Scott, Marshall

Lilly Kessler, Newton

Madison Stevens, Mt. Carmel

Kaitlyn Coombes, Paris

Trinity Tingley, Paris

Kendra Young, Paris

Grayce Burgerner, Richland County

Marisa Zane, Robinson

Elizabeth Shea, Robinson

Katelyn Jones, Robinson

 

Second Team

Zara Engledow, Marshall

Camryn Martin, Newton

Maycee Randall, Mt. Carmel

Kyrstin Weiler, Richland County

Alexia Zane, Robinson

 

Honorable Mention

Grace Towles Casey, Westfield

Gracie Stallings, Lawrenceville

Libby McFarland, Marshall

Nora Jones, Mt. Carmel

Alexis Hetzer, Newton

Deming Hawkins, Paris

Kelysse Weiler, Richland County

Taylor Blank, Robinson

Jr. Lady Aces Travel To West Salem

From Coach Bonnie Keepes:

Last night the girls traveled for away matches against West Salem. 

The 6th grade team started the first set with winning score of 25-23, and dropped the 2nd set 15-25. Even though they didn’t win both sets, we were happy to see the girls trying to get three contacts and attacking the ball often. 

Some stats to share are Opal Earnest with 2 aces, 7 assists, Jersey Mounts 1 ace, 1 kill, Annie Kanipe 1 ace, 1 kill, Haleigh Prosise 2 kills, Peyton King 1 ace, 3 kills, Farryn King 1 ace, Addie White 2 aces, Peyton Simpson 1 ace, Erin Delong 2 aces. 

The 7th grade team had a better attacking game tonight, and serves were much better as well. They took each set, with scores of 25-17, 25-16. 

Highlights were Alivia Peach had 1 ace, 5 kills, Journey Loudermilk 3 aces, Quincy Keepes 3 aces, 11 assists, 1 kill, Avery Coston 2 aces, 5 kills, Zoie Randall 2 aces, 3 kills, 1 dig, Bayley Andrews 1 assist, Addison Mobley 1 dig, Ella Turner 1 kill, Ryleigh Gill 1dig.

The 8th grade team started out with some good defense, but with so many attacking errors we couldn’t get in a rhythm.  I did see some good rally’s but we dropped the first set 25-20. The second set everything that can go wrong in a set did, the girls did not serve receive, communicate, or attack well. We sent over too many free balls, and then we were missing defensive reads. It was a recipe for a big takedown, with a score of 5-25.  Sets like that are tough but if you don’t win you learn. There are many things we can take away from the whole match. West Salem really stepped up their game from the last time we beat them, and we did not bring our A game last night. 

The takeaways were Lyla Keepes 1 kill, 5 digs, Kyleigh Smith 1 block, 1 dig, Evie Sellers 1 kill, Riley Hershey 1 kill, Kinley Harris 2 assist, Leah Lewis 1 assist 2 digs. Mercedes Dillard 3 digs, Mylee Farmer 1 dig.

This weekend we host the 6th grade tournament starting at 9 on Saturday at the grade school. Our 8th grade team will be heading to Fairfield starting at 9 to play in a big 16 team tournament. It will be a great warm up before regionals. 

Comments by coach Bonnie Keepes


Jr. Lady Aces Sweep Yellow Jackets

From Coach Bonnie Keepes:

Monday night the girls traveled to Allendale to play the St. Mary’s Allendale co op team. 

The 6th grade team started with more missed serves than usual, but played scrappy at the end and won each set.  25-20, 25-23 and a 3rd set won 15-12 it was played because they had extra time. 

Some stats to share are Opal Earnest with 6 aces, Macy Glenn 3 aces, Jersey Mounts 3 aces, 1 kill, Annie Kanipe 1 ace, Josie James 2 aces, Haleigh Prosise 1 ace, Farryn King 3 aces, Hannah Lewis 1 ace, Addie White 2 aces, Peyton Simpson 2 aces, Erin Delong 5 aces. 

The 7th grade team looked like a different team tonight. They played flat, and didn’t execute skills. As a whole 11 serving errors, and 10 hitting errors almost cost them the game. St. Mary’s did have some good defensive plays as well. The we’re still able to come up with the win in two sets winning 25-19, 27-25. 

Highlights were Alivia Peach had 5 aces, 4  kills, 1 dig, Journey Loudermilk 1 ace, 2 kills, Quincy Keepes 1 ace, 8 assists, 1 kill, Avery Coston 2 aces, 1 dig, Zoie Randall 3 aces, 1 kill, Bayley Andrews 1assist, Ella Turner 1 ace, Ryleigh Gill 1dig, 

The 8th grade team came out with on point execution. They only had 3 serving errors tonight, and double digit aces, kills, and assists.  I also saw good reads and footwork to the ball on defense. The girls took both sets 25-5, 25-14. They are starting to gel really well, and I’m excited to see what the end of the season brings. 

The takeaways were Lyla Keepes 3 aces, 3 kills, 1 assist, 3 digs, Kyleigh Smith 4 aces, 3 kills, 1 assist, 2 digs, Evie Sellers 2 kills, Riley Hershey 6 aces, Quincy Keepes, 4 aces, 4 assists, Leah Lewis 1 ace, 3 assists, 1 kill, Mercedes Dillard 1 dig, Brynlie Mounts 1 kill, Madi Rigg 1 block, Sophie Banks 2 aces, and Mylee Farmer with good defense.  

Our next match-up is Wednesday March 1st at West Salem, with 6th starting at 5:15 and 7th and 8th to follow. 

MCJHS Volleyball Jr. Lady Aces Sweep Flora

From Coach Bonnie Keepes:

The road match last night was fun and exciting for all of our teams. Three big wins, and lots of energy! 

The 6th grade team  played great against a Flora 7th grade team, and won each set.  25-21, 25-16, and a 3rd 15-13 played because they had extra. 

Some stats to share are Opal Earnest with 5 aces, 3 assists, Macy Glenn 1 kill, Jersey Mounts 2 kills, Annie Kanipe 1 dig, 1 kill, Farryn King 1 ace, 2 kills, 1 dig, Addie White 1 ace, Peyton Simpson 1 kill. 

 The 7th grade team put the hammer down and never let up. They started strong serving and attacking. Our passing was consistent as well. They came up with big wins both sets 25-10, 25-16. 

Highlights were Alivia Peach had 7 aces, 1 kill, Journey Loudermilk 5 kills, Quincy Keepes 7 aces, 5 assists, Avery Coston 3 aces, 1 dig, Zoie Randall 1 kills, Bayley Andrews 4 aces. 

 

The 8th team came out fired up! They were moving and reading better on defense. Flora sent over a good amount of free balls, and we attacked the ball back at them well tonight.  The girls served aggressively and were fun to watch. They took both sets 25-17, 25-13. 

The takeaways were Lyla Keepes 4 aces, 5 kills, Kyleigh Smith 4 kills, Evie Sellers 3 aces, 1 kill, Riley Hershey 5 aces, Kinley Harris 3 aces, 10 assists, Leah Lewis 6 assists, 1 kill, Mercedes Dillard 1 kill. 

 

Our next game will be Monday the 27th Away vs. St. Mary’s Allendale at Allendale. 6th grade starting at 5:15, 7th and 8th to follow. 

Jr. Lady Aces Beat Olney In Volleyball Action

From Coach Bonnie Keepes :

The 8th team found they needed to be more disciplined on defense. We weren’t making it to our spots leading to missed pickups. I think we came out a little complacent due to winning so big the last time we faced Olney. The Olney team did step up their play. We were able to push through, and had some big serving runs by Kinley Harris. We won both sets 25-15, 25-19. 

The takeaways were Lyla Keepes 6 aces, 1 dig, Kyleigh Smith 1 ace, 3 kills, 2 blocks, Evie Sellers 1 ace, 3 kills, 1 block, Riley Hershey 2 aces, 1 kill, Kinley Harris 8 aces, 4 assists, Leah Lewis 1 ace, 2 assists, Mylee Farmer 1 dig, 1 kill. Mercedes Dillard 1 dig, Mylee Farmer 1 dig, Madison Riggs 1 block. 

The 7th grade girls played very well last night. They were serving and attacking aggressively. They were also scrappy on defense. They came up with big wins both sets 25-9, 25-11.

The 6th grade team almost came back at the end, but dropped the first set against Olney 22-25. The second group was able to pick it up and take the second set 25-19. 

Some stats to share are Opal Earnest with 4 aces, Macy Glenn 4 aces, Jersey Mounts 1 ace, 2 kill, Annie Kanipe 1 dig, Haleigh Prosise 2 aces, 1 kill, Peyton Simpson 1 ace. 

Highlights were Alivia Peach had 4 aces, 2 kills, Journey Loudermilk 11 aces, 3 kills, Quincy Keepes 2 aces, 6 assists, 2 kills Zoie Randall 2 aces, 2 kills, 1 dig, Addison Mobley 1 dig, Ella Turner 1 ace,

Our next game will be tonight Thursday the 23rd Away against Flora. 6th grade starting at 5:15, 7th and 8th to follow. 


Jr. Lady Aces Sweep New Hope On 8th Grade Night

Mt. Carmel Aces vs. New Hope Volleyball 

We had a great crowd last night for 8th grade night, and all 3 teams took wins against New Hope. 

The 6th grade started off the night with a big win set scores of 25-10, 25-12. The girls had some good strong serving. 

Some stats to share are Opal Earnest with 7 aces, 2 assists. Macy Glenn 2 aces, Jersey Mounts 5 aces, 1 kill, Farryn King 5 aces, 1 kill, Hannah Lewis 2 aces. 

The 7th grade girls started strong and we’re able to win big both sets with scores of 25-12, 25-14. 

Highlights were Alivia Peach had 2 aces, 1 kills, Journey Loudermilk 1 kill, Quincy Keepes 4 aces, 2 assists, Zoie Randall 4 aces, 4 kills, Ella Turner 1 ace, 1 dig, Chloe Toutloff 1 ace. 

The 8th grade matchup the girls executed well and were able to win big both sets 25-12, 25-11. All the girls saw playing time, and had a fun win for 8th grade night.  

The takeaways were Lyla Keepes 8 aces, 3 kills, Kyleigh Smith 3 kills, 2 digs, Evie Sellers 1 ace, 2 kills, 1 assist, Riley Hershey 1 ace, 1 kill, Kinley Harris 1 ace, 4 assists, Leah Lewis 1 assists, Mylee Farmer 1 dig, 1 kill. Mercedes Dillard with solid serve receive. 

It was a bit sad for me to see these girls line up as 8th graders and being honored, but my excitement for what the are capable of shut that down! They are a team to watch. 

Our next matchup will be tonight Wednesday the 22nd at home against Richland County Middle school. 6th grade starting at 5:15, 7th and 8th to follow. 

Mt. Carmel Jr. LADY Aces took 2nd in AlbiON INVITATIONAL

From Coach Bonnie Keepes:


Mt. Carmel Jr. Aces took 2nd in Albion Invitational 

The 7th grade team started In the morning with pool play against Albion. They won the first set in commanding style 25-11, the second set Albion was able to capitalize off our errors, but the girls fought hard for it, and came back from a 19-24 deficit to win 26-24!  The second match the girls won big against Red Hill 25-4, 25-6. The last pool play match of the day was against Fairfield. Our girls continued playing well, and won 25-13, 25-20. Next they headed to the single court gym for the championship game against Jasper Geoff. You could see this team had solid skills, being coached by Fairfield’s high school coach Chet Snyder. Kenley was pumping them up, but I think a bit of nerves came into play. The girls made more errors that match. Jasper Geoff was able to minimize theirs and took the match with set scores of 19-25, 19-25.

The 8th grade team started their tournament at one o’clock against Olney. I was very happy to see the girls start out very aggressive the first match. They won in big fashion 25-7, 25-15. I told them the first set could set the tone for the whole day, and they answered. Next up the girls faced Red Hill and won 25-16, 25-8. The 3rd match of the day was against West Salem. This team was stronger than the first two of the day. The girls showed they could scramble more this game, picking up some tough balls and hustling to get everything up. They took the first set 25-19, but made more serving and receiving errors the second, set dropping it 17-25. The girls showed they really wanted to be in the Championship. They started the 3rd set very strong having West Salem down 18-3 at one point, and finishing 25-13 to win the match. 

Coming into the Championship we knew Fairfield was going to be solid, with many of their girls playing travel ball. Heading to the single gym the girls were excited. We were neck and neck the whole first set to 20-20 when Fairfield was able to put up a 5 point run winning 20-25. I was happy overall with how we played the first set. The second set I could see some frustration creeping in on some. We made some silly errors that we can’t afford in a championship set. Things like that rev up the opposing teams momentum, and keep us down. Fairfield took the second set, to win the match 16-25. 

I was very proud to see both teams take second. Of course we wanted first, but with 7 teams in each bracket it was good to be close to the top.  If you don’t win, you learn! There are some big things we learned from the final sets, that will help us get better this season. 

7th stats vs Albion, Alivia Peach 2 aces, 3 kills, 1 dig, Journey Loudermilk 4 aces, 2 kills, Quincy Keepes 8 aces, 4 assist, Avery Coston 1 ace, 2 kills, Zoie Randall 4 kills, 1 dig, 1 block, Bayley Andrews 2 Assists, Addison Mobley 1 dig, Ella Turner 1 ace, Ryleigh Gill 1 dig.

7th vs Red Hill  Alivia Peach 4 aces, Journey Loudermilk 13 aces, Quincy Keepes 3 aces, 2 assist, Avery Coston 1 kill, Zoie Randall 6 aces, 1 kill, Bayley Andrews 1 ace, Graycee Haggard 1 kill.

7th vs Fairfield Alivia Peach 1 kill, 1 dig, Journey Loudermilk 5 aces, 3 kills, Quincy Keepes 5 aces, 5 assist, Zoie Randall 9 aces, 2 kills, Ella Turner 1 ace, 2 kills

7th vs Jasper Geoff Alivia Peach 1 ace, 1 kill, 1 dig, Journey Loudermilk 1 ace, 1 dig, Quincy Keepes 3 aces, 2 assist, Avery Coston 1 ace, 2 kills, 2 blocks, Zoie Randall 1 ace, 2 kills,1 block, Ella Turner 1 ace, 1 kill, 2 blocks Chloe Toutloff 1 dig.

8th stats vs Olney Lyla Keepes 4 aces, 2 kills, 1 dig, Kyleigh Smith 7 ace, 2 kills, 2 blocks, Evie Sellers 7 aces, 1 kill, Riley Hershey 1 aces, 1 kill, Kinley Harris 4 assists, 2 kill, Leah Lewis 3 aces, 4 assists, 2 digs.

8th vs Red Hill Lyla Keepes 4 aces, Evie Sellers 3 kills, Riley Hershey 5 aces, 1 kill, Kinley Harris 5 aces, 1 assist, 1 kill, Leah Lewis 2 aces, 4 assists, Mercedes Dillard 1 ace, Brynlie Mounts 1 dig, Madi Riggs, 1 kill, Leila Sweeney 4 aces.

8th vs West Salem Lyla Keepes 5 aces, 3 kills, 2 digs, Kyleigh Smith 5 aces, 4 kills, 3 digs, 1 block, Evie Sellers 1 ace, 5 kills, 1 block, Riley Hershey 7 aces, 1 kill, 2 blocks, Kinley Harris 4 aces, 6 assists, 1 kill, 1 block, Leah Lewis 9 assists, 1 dig, Mercedes Dillard 1 kill, 1 dig, Mylee Farmer 1 dig. 

8th vs Fairfield Lyla Keepes 5 aces, 1 kill, 2 digs, Kyleigh Smith 2 aces, 3 kills, 1 dig, 1 block, Evie Sellers 1 ace, 1 kill, Riley Hershey 2 kills, Kinley Harris 1 ace, 2 assists, 1 kill, 1 block, Leah Lewis 4 assists.

Tonight the girls face Parkview middle school at home with 6th grade starting at 5:00. 

Photo Credit Nichole Loudermilk

Jr. Lady Aces Win 2 of 3 At Carmi

From Coach Bonnie Keepes:

Last night the girls traveled to Carmi. The 6th grade team faired well, playing the Carmi 7th grade B team. They lost the first set 15-25 won the second 25-17, but lost the match in the final set 5-15. 

Highlights are Opal Earnest with 5 aces, Jersey Mounts a kill,  Annie Kanipe with 2 aces, Josie James 1 assist, Haleigh Prosise 1 ace, Peyton King 1 kill, Hannah Lewis 1 ace, Erin Delong 1 ace. 

The 7th grade team took a big win! Tonight was the best they have played. They missed very few serves, were transitioning off the net well and attacking  with more confidence. They took the first set 25-14, and the second 25-11. 

The takeaways were Alivia Peach 2 aces, Journey Loudermilk 1 ace, 1 kill, Quincy Keepes 4 aces, 2 assist, Avery Coston 2 kills, Zoie Randall 1 ace, 1 kill, Bayley Andrews 2 Assists, Stella Woodcock 1 ace, Ryleigh Gill 1 dig.

The 8th grade team started a bit slow again. Once we cleaned up our hitting errors, and started picking up their sporadic free balls, we were able to get in a groove, and there was no turning back.  They took both sets 25-19, 25-9.

For the Stats Lyla Keepes 1 aces, 2 kills, Kyleigh Smith 1 ace, 4 kills, 2 blocks, Evie Sellers 1 ace, 1 block, Riley Hershey 3 aces, 1 kill, Kinley Harris 6 aces, 4 assists, Leah Lewis 3 aces, 1 assists.

It’s a was a great night to be an Ace! This Saturday the 7th and 8th head to the Albion tournament. The 7th will play in the morning and the 8th in the afternoon. 

Jr. Lady Aces Sweep Albion

From Coach Bonnie Keepes: We had quite an exciting night of volleyball for the crowd! The 6th grade started off the night with a super close set that went to the high score of 30-28 beating Albion. The second set the girls only had time to play to 15, and lost 12-15. We were so excited to see the girls trying to get pass, set, hits, and being more aggressive moving to the ball. 

Some stats to share are Opal Earnest with 3 assists, and a dig, Annie Kanipe with an Ace, 1 kill,1 dig, Jersey Mounts 1 kill, Josie James 1 ace, Peyton King 1 assist, Addie White 2 aces. 

The 7th grade girls were slow to start their match dropping the first set 25-17. They just had too many errors and got down. The second set they were able to get momentum going with better serving and communicating. They continued this and played hard into the next two sets winning the match 25-18, 15-11. 

Highlights were Alivia Peach had 1 ace, Journey Loudermilk 1 ace, 1 kill, Quincy Keepes 1 ace, 2 assist, 2 digs, Avery Coston 3 aces, 1 kill, Zoie Randall 3 aces, 2 kills, 1 dig, Bayley Andrews 1 assist, Ella Turner 1 ace, 1 block.

The 8th grade matchup was intense. The aces started with some errors and got in a hole to start the first set, they just couldn’t catch up and dropped it 22-25. The next two sets the girls showed grit, and really wanted the win. They attacked more and played better defense against a scrappy Albion team, taking the second 2 sets and winning the match 25-18, 15-11. 

The takeaways were Lyla Keepes 3 aces, 2 kills, Kyleigh Smith 1 ace, 5 kills, 2 digs, 3 blocks, Evie Sellers 3 aces, 4 kills, 4 blocks, Riley Hershey 2 aces, 2 kills, 2 blocks, Kinley Harris 2 aces, 10 assists, 1 kill, 2 blocks, Leah Lewis 1 ace, 4 assists, 1 dig, Mercedes Dillard 1 kill, 1 dig, Mylee Farmer 1 dig. 

I was so proud of our teams tonight. They showed they wanted the win, and after getting down they fought back! Our next matchup will be against Carmi on Thursday the 9th away starting at 5:15. 

Comments by coach Bonnie Keepes 

Jr. Lady Aces Sweep Grayville In Home Opener

From Coach Bonnie Keepes:

The Jr. Lady Aces played their first home Volleyball game tonight against Grayville. We started with an inter squad match with the 6th graders. Kim Winters led them to a great start. It was nice for them to play each other and gain confidence. 

 Next the 7th grade group faced Grayville. The first set we made quite a few serving and hitting errors. Their head coach Kinley Drone was very happy to see they cleaned it up more it the second set, had some good attacks and better serving. 

They won both sets 25-18, 25-10. 

Highlights against Grayville, Alivia Peach had 1 ace, 3 kills, Journey Loudermilk 2 aces, Quincy Keepes 7 aces, 4 assist, Avery Coston 3 aces, 2 kills, Zoie Randall 4 aces, 4 kills, Bayley Andrews 3 Assists, Ella Turner 2 aces, Ryleigh Gill 1 ace. 

 The 8th Grade matchup started with a short moment of serve receive struggles, but then we took command and didn’t let up.  I was so happy to see them moving better on defense, and attacking with much more confidence. We were playing aggressive, and attacking many more out of system balls. The girls took the win with set scores of 25-16, 25-16.

The 8th grade girls highlights were Lyla Keepes 3 aces, 5 kills, Kyleigh Smith 2 kills, an ace, 1 dig, 1 block, Evie Sellers an ace, 2 kills, 1 dig, Riley Hershey an ace, 3 kills, 1 dig, 1 block, Kinley Harris 4 aces, 4 assists, 1 kill, 1 block, Leah Lewis 2 aces, 3 assists, 1 dig, Mercedes Dillard 1 dig, Brynlie Mounts 1 kill. 

The Lady Aces face Albion Tuesday starting with the 6th grade at 5:15 and 7th and 8th to follow. 

Jr. Lady Aces 8th Graders 2nd At Robinson

From Coach Bonnie Keepes:

The 8th grade group started a little slow as well. I could tell some of them were wound up and nervous. The first set against Robinson we lost 17-25, but I saw a change in momentum shift at end with strong serving. The second set we came out much more aggressive building on the momentum from the first set winning 25-16. Lyla Keepes was able to get in a serving zone ending the first with 9 straight and starting the second with a run of 11. The girls started attacking more and moving better along the net. The 3rd set we took the match 15-7 for the win. We quit making as many errors and showed our skill. 

With that win we went to the Championship facing Casey, they were moving well and playing smart. Something I think we will get to with more play. We started slow again losing 13-25. The second set we were ahead most of the set but had a break down in serve receive at the end losing 22-25.

The highlights against Robinson were Lyla Keepes 14 aces, 1 kill, 4 digs, Kyleigh Smith 4 kills, and 1 block, Evie Sellers 4 kills, Riley Hershey an ace, 1 dig, Kinley Harris an ace, 4 assists, 1 kill, 1 dig, 1 block, Leah Lewis 7 assists, Mercedes Dillard 2 digs, Brynlie Mounts 1 kill, Madi Riggs 1 kill, and 1 block. 

Facing Casey Lyla Keepes had 4 aces, 5 kills, Kyleigh Smith 1 kill, Evie Sellers 1 ace, 1 block, Riley Hershey 3 aces, Kinley Harris an ace, 3 assists, 2 kills, Leah Lewis 1 ace, 2 assists, Mercedes Dillard 1 dig, Mylee Farmer 1 dig. 

Second place wasn’t bad considering both  the teams we played have been playing for a solid month. We will get strong each match!  Next we face Grayville at home on Monday, with 6th grade having an inter squad match. 7th grade will be starting at 6 o’clock with 8th following. 

Jr. Lady Aces 7th Graders Finish 3rd At Season Opening Tourney

From Coach Bonnie Keepes:

The Jr. High Volleyball team started their season in Robinson this weekend. The 7th grade started out against a strong Robinson team. Robinson has been playing for a month, so they had more team chemistry, but our girls started to settle in and won their second match against Olney taking 3rd in the tournament.  Scores were 15-25, 13-25 L vs Robinson and against Olney 25-20, 25-18 W.  Some highlights vs Robinson Alivia Peach had 3 digs and 1 block, Journey Loudermilk 1 dig, Quincy Keepes 2 aces, 1 assist, 1 kill, Avery Coston 1 kill, Zoie Randall 1 kill, 1 dig, 1 block, Bayley Andrews with 1 Assist, and 1 dig, Addison Mobley 2 aces, and 1 dig, Ella Turner with 1 ace, and 1 dig, Ryleigh Gill 1 dig. 

Facing Olney Alivia Peach had 1 ace, and 1 block, Journey Loudermilk 6 aces, Quincy Keepes 4 aces, 3 assists, 1 kill, Avery Coston 1 ace, 2 kills, 1 block, Zoie  Randall 1 ace, 3 kills, Bayley Andrews 1 assist, Ella Turner 1 ace.