SOUTHAMPTON
Southampton Academy varsity volleyball lost their season opener against Portsmouth Christian on Thursday night.

Coach Rebecca Harper said, “They are a good team and we hung with them.  I think we needed to get our first game jitters out.  We lost 25 – 15 the first game, but the second games were much more competitive.”

Mason Pope and Jordan Marks each had several kills during the game.

Avery Pope, the setter for the team, did a great job setting the girls up Thursday night according to Harper.

Harper also added in that Allison Matthews did a wonderful job getting to some tough balls and keeping the point alive.

The second game was 25 – 22 and the third was 25 – 19.

“The other team had one really good hitter and they covered well,” Harper continued. “They got a lot back that should have been a point for us.  We learned a lot from last night and are excited to get back to practice on Monday.”

The final scores for the games against Portsmouth Christian were 25 – 15, 25 – 22 and 25 – 19.

When asked about how she thinks the rest of the season will be, Harper said, “I am so impressed with these girls.  We have some very talented athletes, and I think they have what it takes to do well in the post-season.  They work hard and love volleyball. I couldn’t ask for more in my first year coaching at the varsity level.”

Coach Emmy Hodges added in, “We have a great group of girls who work well together.  I can’t wait to see the season unfold.”

The girls are very positive about this season. They said they are excited about the new coaches and new girls who have joined the team.

Senior Madison Dunn said “I could not ask for a better team for my senior year of volleyball.  I am so excited to see how we progress and become closer as a team.”

Junior Mason Pope stated, “This season is another for new beginnings.  We have a lot of new girls, and a lot of new talent. We have got some work to do, but we look very promising.  I’m excited for a new season with new girls and new coaches.”

Junior Allison Matthews added in, “This volleyball season is off to a great start.  With new coaches and a new team we have a lot to learn, but we are learning.  I’m looking forward to this season and hope to gain more experience”

Southampton Academy will play again on Tuesday night at Brunswick Academy.

They have their first home game on Thursday, Sept. 17, against Banner Christian School.