The Ropes Eagles (25-9 Overall, 4-0 2A-3 District) extend their winning streak to 14 wins, defeating district foe Tahoka (19-13 Overall, 2A-3 District).
First-year head coach for Ropes, Jolee Wilson, wanted to implement a culture of connection and hard work that is now revealing itself as the main reason for their winning streak.
“I knew they needed a culture change and they needed some unity,” Wilson said. “They bought in immediately, and I think that contributed to our win streak.”
Senior middle back Brylee Lauderdale was able to find open gaps in the Tahoka defense, racking up kills using her soft touch around the net. Lauderdale entered the game with 155 kills, crediting her improvement to the revamped team chemistry.
“I think I improved so much this year; I think my setter connection has improved a lot,” Lauderdale said. “Last year was so on and off that we couldn’t find each other on the net, and this year, it’s just flowing.”
Winning all three sets: 25-20, 25-10, 2520, Ropes were led by Lauderdale and junior outside hitter Addie Mae Falls with nine kills each, in addition to sophomore outside hitter Lily Greer contributing six kills for Ropes.
“She (Lauderdale) is in her comfy spot at middle; she’s a natural there, she’s aggressive at the net,” Wilson said. “ Lily is only a sophomore, and she’s a force to be reckoned with already.”
The winning streak has shun confidence in the team as coach Wilson says, “I really feel like we’ll make a good run at state this year.”
Ropes looks to continue their winning streak versus Plains at noon, Oct. 10, at Plains High School.