The structure of volleyball, both on the court and in terms of the tournament format at OVA (Ontario Volleyball Association) events, is notably different in the 12U age grouping than across all other levels of play.
Still, the end goal does not differ greatly, as coaches look to provide a solid base of fundamentals to their young athletes, entering the competitive volleyball scene for the very first time.
Despite taking just two of the twelve sets they played in Newmarket last weekend, Northern Chill 12U Girls’ bench boss Glen Murray was not at all disappointed with the results.
“We are starting to understand what it takes to be competitive,” he said. “Each player is beginning to understand their role on this team. Alyssa Nicholls really stepped up her game and showed a lot of perseverance, and Emily Audette was a serving machine.”
Generally speaking, the Chill found themselves right in the mix every game, breaking the ice in the morning with a 25-27, 22-25 loss to the Toronto Phoenix Rise, but earning a split in game two with the Aurora Storm League (22-25, 25-21).
Same pattern through the next two matches, as the Sudbury crew were swept by the Georgian Cubs (Barrie – 21-25, 18-25), but won one of two against Vision Volleyball from North Bay (16-25, 25-23).
The locals closed off the day with their toughest matchups, beaten 17-25, 22-25 by the Leaside Lightning, and 18-25, 7-25 by the Aurora Storm Tsunami.
The balance of the Chill 12U roster is comprised of Gabrielle Comeau, Lindsay Murray, Shanna Lessard, Kameryn Van Wallegham, Kayla Bouffard, Abby Ayotte, Ashley Ruddick, Alexie Chicoine, Emma Harris, Annie Simon and coaches Glenn Murray and Denny Chicoine.
