After an emotionally charged weekend in which the Geibel volleyball team defeated highly ranked Elderton in an exhibition match, the Gators returned to Section 5-A work on Tuesday. And it was business as usual for the Lady Gators as they picked up their fifth section win in six tries by posting a 15-6, 15-1, 15-7 victory over visiting Carmichaels. Kristin Hozak led the Lady Gators with 11 service points and four aces. Amy Tascione also had four aces to go along with nine service points. The Lady Gators (5-1, 7-1) dominated the match, but during the first few volleys in the first set, the Lady Mikes (2-5, 4-6) were highly competitive and actually held a 4-3 lead against a slow-starting Geibel squad. ‘We came out a little lazy and I wasn’t real happy about that,’ Geibel coach Rick Watkins said. ‘I guess it is a good thing that we are able to pick it up. But one of these times, we’ll get started a little late and we won’t be able to catch up.’ But Tuesday night wasn’t one of those times. After falling behind early in the first set, Julie Kirik nailed four straight service points, including two aces that gave Geibel a 7-5 lead. In addition to some strong play from the service line, the Lady Gators were also getting some solid play at the net from Ashley Kreinbrook, Kirik, Ashley Speeney and Molly McGrath. McGrath led the team with eight kills while Kreinbrook followed with seven. ‘They’re aggressive at the net,’ Watkins stated. ‘Our front-row players have to own the net.’ Late in the first set, Tascione slammed an ace to make it 14-6 before Geibel finished it off. The second set completely belonged to Geibel as Speeney capped the effort with four straight service points to give Geibel the 15-1 win. In the third set, Hozak put Geibel up with five quick points before the Lady Mikes rallied to pull within two at 7-5. But just when it seemed as though Carmichaels might be in position to steal a set, Tascione sent seven serves over for points to make it 12-5. Then Julie Wisilosky sealed the win with a spike to make it 15-7. Despite being thoroughly dominated, the Lady Mikes did have a few bright spots. Christina Antonelli led the team with three aces and six kills. Beth Chambers had six service points. ‘We have brand new kids playing,’ Carmichaels coach Pat Gibson said as she noted that Chambers is the only player returning from last year’s team. ‘They’re playing their hearts out. We asked for improvement and we’re getting improvement. I’m happy with them.’ Aside from the slow start, Watkins was also happy with his team, particularly the offense. ‘I’m pleased that we finished strong,’ Watkins said. ‘Our offense is clicking.’ The Lady Gators will take to the road tonight at they visit Greensburg Central Catholic in a non-section match.

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