Sr Wolves volleyball team gets playoff win in rematch with Assumption

Ava Purdie (1, middle) tips the ball over the net Feb. 3 versus Assumption.

The North Star Wolves senior girls volleyball team played Assumption twice last week, and won when it really counted.

The Wolves and Purple Raiders ended their regular seasons against each other last Tuesday night (Feb. 3) in Amherstburg with Assumption defeating North Star two sets to one. Assumption won two close sets 25-22 and 25-21 before North Star won the third and final set 25-22.

The scene shifted to Assumption last Thursday afternoon for the first round of the WECSSAA “AA” playoffs. The Wolves, whose regular season record was 3-7, won the rematch against the Purple Raiders (5-5) 25-20, 25-18 and 25-18.

“After our defeat to Assumption on Tuesday, the girls returned to practice the following day focused on fixing key fundamentals before facing the Raiders again. With a clear understanding of Assumption’s gameplay, the girls came into Thursday’s rematch locked in and determined,” said Wolves coach Mya Foreman. “Starting off the playoffs, early in the first set Lily McConnell set the tone with strong serving, while communication on the court was high. Chloe Pukay was dominant at the net, with tremendous blocking that helped North Star secure the opening set and build confidence.” 

Foreman added the second set followed a similar pattern, “highlighted by smart offensive plays at the front from Ava Purdie and strong back-row defence from Julia Mallioux and libero Aeris Theuma. Strong rightside offence from Lydia Mereszak allowed the team to dig deep and take control.” 

In the third set, Foreman said the Wolves remained consistent, with “impressive hands from Sophie French and powerful swings from Peyton Meloche sealing the straight-set victory!” 

“A special shoutout goes to Brenna McCall, Sidney Myles, Autumn Triolet, and Rayah Crawford for keeping team morale high,” said Foreman. “For me, it honestly felt like we had won a championship. Mrs. (Lisa) Voakes and I were thrilled to see how happy and proud the girls were in that moment. They stayed focused from start to finish, and their determination was a key factor throughout the match.” 

Foreman added: “Communication on the court was stronger than ever, which allowed the team to create more offensive opportunities supported by a strong defensive effort. The growth this team has shown, along with their passion and love for volleyball, is at an all-time high, and I am proud of every one of these athletes!” 

Foreman pointed out Meloche was recognized as a second team All-Star for Senior Girls AA Volleyball.

After the regular season finale, Foreman said the Wolves played well and came together well despite the loss. She said after that match she believed they were ready for the playoffs.

The Wolves were in quarterfinal action in Belle River yesterday afternoon after this issue of the RTT went to press.

Sr Wolves volleyball team gets playoff win in rematch with Assumption

By Ron Giofu