Linn’s volleyball team played well last week despite injuries. “The varsity team continues to show its flexibility in making adjustments in our rotation,” said Coach Megan Russell.

The Lady Cats have worked hard to improve at the net and serving line. “We are continuing to work on improving our serve-receive rating,” said Russell, noting last week started with many serve-receive errors, with ratings ranging from 0.25-2.0 against Cuba. 

Against Belle, Linn’s rating improved from 0.92-3.0, and in the Centralia match, the Lady Cats were much more consistent, with ratings ranging from 1.17-2.38. “This continues to be a focus of ours: working on better ball control and serve-receive drills during practice,” Russell added.

On Thursday, Linn defeated Centralia in straight sets, 25-16, 25-14, 27-25.

Ali Russell and Jorja Kempker led the team with five aces apiece. Russell also had nine kills. Nicole Grellner posted a team-high 27 assists, Vivien Baker added 10 digs, and Carley Brandt finished with a block. Kendra Robinson’s 90.9% serve rating was the best among the Lady Cats.

The JV team won 24-26, 25-6, 25-18, and the C team won 25-22.

“The JV and C girls continue to work on skill improvement,” said Coach Russell. “They are playing much more team-oriented and making improvements every day.”

In last Tuesday’s match at Belle, Linn claimed a 25-16, 25-15, 25-16 varsity win.

Stats — Baker (7 aces, 8 digs), Grellner (6 aces, 30 assists), Russell (11 kills), Harlee Klebba (9 kills, 2 blocks), and Madison Mengwasser (100% serving).

The JV Lady Cats won 25-18, 25-21.

Linn opened last week with a 25-10, 25-20, 24-26, 25-20 win over Centralia in the varsity match.

Stats — Russell (9 aces), Baker (3 aces, 11 kills, 12 digs), Klebba (13 kills), Grellner (36 assists), Brandt (4 blocks), and Mengwasser and Robinson (100% serving).

Linn claimed a 25-21, 25-17 JV win and lost the C match, 7-25.