14U Black Again 7th in 15U Tier 2

Once again the girls 14U Black team ventured to Kipling Collegiate in Etobicoke to play in their final Tier 2, 15U tournament. The day began strongly with the girls easily defeating their first two opponents. Finishing first in their pool earned them a bye into the playoff round. Once again they handled a long delay in play by socializing together, eating well (thanks parents) and watching some good volleyball.

Finally the crossover game was up. We were facing, somewhat surprisingly, the 12th ranked team, Ottawa Mavericks 15U. Wow, they grow them big in our national capital. The tallest girl was around 6'1 to 6'2 with the matching fit girth. The rest of the team came in at about 6' even. Despite being outsized in all aspects, our girls showed no fear, serving well, swinging at every opportunity and digging some strongly hit balls. Both games were neck and neck with the Mavericks coming out on top 25 - 20, 25 -19. This meant playing for 5th/7th against, who else? Aurora Storm 14U of course. In the first game our girls just outplayed Storm in every respect. In the second game, despite a great comeback effort, we fell a little short. This meant game 3. This was a hard fought battle coming down to a situation with DA leading 14 -13. Unfortunately, a "missed" call by the ref allowed Storm to tie the match, and go one point up. Not to be daunted DA tied the game again. The next two points were well fought but went to the wrong side of the net for us, when we ultimately lost 17 - 15.

One thing I learned as a coach, don't take the seeding seriously. The 12th ranked team ended up in the bronze medal match and the 11th ranked team played for gold. Go figure...girls volleyball.

DA 14U Black is looking forward to a re-match with Storm next weekend in Windsor. Go Black Go!!

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