By Brian O’Shea, Plateau Daily News
Highlands varsity volleyball team hosted Smoky Mountain last Monday and won the first set, but lost the next three.
Highlands Olivia Corbin launches for the kill during the season opener against Smoky at home on Aug. 12.
“With it being our first game, I knew there were going to be some struggles but overall, we played well,” said Highlands Coach Kaitlin Bishop. “We competed all night, just had a hard time finding a rhythm and keeping the momentum on our side.”
Highlands Aislynn Wyatt-Luck sets against Smoky.
The Lady Highlanders took the first set 25-22. Smoky won the next three sets 25-16, 25-18, and 25-19.
“We have a good group of girls with many being with us for a few years now. We are still making some adjustments and finding what works best for us as a team. This team really hustles and plays with a lot of grit. We have a lot of work left to do, but very excited to watch this team go to work this year.
Highlands Birdie Sherwood tips the ball for a point.
Highlands has a busy volleyball schedule tonight at home against Murphy, beginning with Middle School at 4 p.m., JV at 6 p.m., and varsity starts at 7 p.m.
Highlands Karen Gomez gets ready to return Smoky’s serve.
Highlands Cayden Pierson blocks a Smoky tip.
Highlands AE Woods sets up Birdie Sherwood.
The Lady Highlanders listen to Coach Kaitlin Bishop during a timeout against Smoky.
Highlands celebrates a hard-fought point against Smoky.
Highlands Olivia Corbin kills it for a point.
Highlands Mallory Shriver returns a Smoky serve. Also pictured at the top of the article.
Highlands Birdie Sherwood scores a point against Smoky.
Highlands AE Woods sets the ball against Smoky.
Highlands Aislynn Wyatt-Luck serves to Smoky.
Highlands Mallory Shriver kills it for a point.