By Mark Blentlinger
Schoolcraft welcomed the Galesburg volleyball team Into the Schoolcraft gym in October for an SAC conference match. The Rams started out the first set with some strong play, putting the Eagles at a three-point deficit. It didn’t take long for Andelyn Simkins to show the Rams her strength, with her first of 22 kills for the night. In set one, both teams played extremely well.
The Eagles had great communication with each other on the floor, as they started to show the Rams why they are undefeated in conference play. The first set ended with a win for the Eagles 25-17. Set 2 started much like set one but the Rams turned it around. Set two went to them, 25-21.
Set three started with a different look from the Eagles. They put together a 12-point streak before the Rams were able to put a single point on the board. Set 3 ended with the Eagles on top, a 25-10 win.
The Eagles were able to beat the Rams again in set four, taking it 25-11. Both teams had great defense and put the ball back into play on some great saves, way outside the court lines.
Leaders for the Eagles in kills were Andelyn Simkins with 22, followed by Maggie Morris and Anna Schuppel each with 10. Kelby Goldschmeding led the team on digs with 34. Simkins had 14, followed by Kayla Onken with 9, and was the leader in assists, 52.
Coach Erin Onken said the girls played “aggressively against a scrappy Rams team.” She also said the team played their game by controlling the first contact, staying smart and aggressive on offense. “We looked really good” said Onken, “The blockers continue to do a great job at the net.” Every player helps keep the Eagles with an undefeated record in SAC conference play. They are 30-4-2 for the season with District play beginning at the end of October.