Highlands Middle School volleyball team traveled to Cashiers on Thursday for the third scrimmage of the season, Highlands scoring the win, 2-0.
Jackson County middle school sports were cancelled this year due to COVID-19, but Highlands and Summit scheduled four scrimmages to give players on both teams a chance to play.
Highlands Katie Earp passes against Summit.
Highlands Katie Earp said she was grateful coaches were able to piece together a modified season to keep their game sharp.
“I think this season is going pretty good,” said Earp. “Even though there aren’t as many games, we’re working together and getting better every day.”
Highlands Jaylin Raby kills the ball against Summit.
Highlands Jaylin Raby said they are using these scrimmages to figure out how they play together as a team and help new players learn different aspects of the game.
“At least we’re able to get out there on the court,” said Raby. “They’re just scrimmages but they still count as experience.”
Summit Jazmin Barranco said even a limited season gives them a chance to work on certain parts of their game.
“We need to practice our communication,” said Barranco. “If we can do that, I think we can do really well.”
Summit Jazmin Barranco returns a Highlands serve on Thursday at home.
All players are required to wear facemasks while on the court and Barranco said it adds a couple of challenges that you just deal with.
“The mask makes it kind of hard to breath, plus it’s difficult to communicate, and it gets really hot on your face,” she said. “I wish the virus was gone, but I’m just glad we’re able to play.”
Highlands AE Woods puts a point on the scoreboard with a hit against Summit.
Summit LaDonna Dallman wracked up several points serving against Highlands.
Highlands Karen Gomez gets airborne to make the pass.
Summit Kaila Lee kills the ball against Highlands.
Highlands Shirley Diaz serves to Summit on Thursday.
Summit Keira Mathis steps onto the court ready to rock the third set against Highlands.
Highlands Claire Worley passes the ball against Summit.
Summit Chloe Crawford digs a Highlands kill.
Highlands Alicia Chastain sends the ball over to the Summit side of the fence.
Summit Catelynn Couch serves to Highlands on Thursday at home.
Highlands Jaylin Raby dives to dig a Summit kill.
Summit Sarah Betty passes against Highlands on Thursday at home.
Pictured at the top of the article is Summit Chloe Crawford setting the ball while Highlands Jaylin Raby throws up a block.
Article and photos by Brian O’Shea
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