NO FIRST GAME JITTERS FOR CRESTVIEW

By Chris Sigler 

Anticipation for the start of the season is always something that builds in all players, coaches and fans alike. This season was no different for the Crestview and East Liverpool volleyball teams each coming off 20 win campaigns and deep postseason runs. Last season these two teams would meet in October with the Rebels suffering their first set loss in 15 matches at the hands of the Potters before eventually coming out on top. That competitive contest set the stage for the highly anticipated 2023 season opener. This year however Crestview proved why they are thought of as one of the best teams in Division III quickly dispatching East Liverpool 25-15, 25-18, 25-14 at Potter Fieldhouse on Wednesday.

Crestview’s Grace Auer showed why she is considered one of the best all around players in the area. The Rebel senior filled the stat sheet with 10 kills, 19 assists, 6 aces, 17 digs, and 18 points. Teammate and Division 1 recruit Abbey Emch made life difficult for the Potters at the net all night. The University of Pittsburgh commit came through with 17 kills, 5 blocks and 8 digs. Lainey Auer would add 7 kills,12 assists, 9 digs while Julia Blasko contributed 14 digs and 17 points for the Rebels.

East Liverpool was led by Peyton Maze with 5 kills, 9 assists. Kamryn Yanni added 11 assists and Faith Grafton led the Potters defensively with 17 digs. East Liverpool (0-1) takes to the road on Thursday as they visit Brooke.

Crestview (1-0) opens up MVAC play looking to keep their early season momentum as they pay a visit to Liberty on Thursday.