Despite improved communication and proactive defense, Freshman Volleyball succumbed to the Round Rock Dragons in a 0-2 sweep on Friday, Sept. 12. Although the Warriors played with  aggressive approaches and steady teamwork, they could not hold onto the lead as the Dragons continued to build momentum and widen the point gap through both sets.

“I was a little nervous [going into today’s match] because it was a home game,” Emme Sims ‘29 said. “[I always feel nervous during home games] because everyone’s watching.”

Opening the first set, strong serves from Sloane Martin ‘29 put Westwood on the board by gaining 2 quick points. Shanked balls and miscommunication from Round Rock kept the Warriors’ energy fiery as they pulled ahead. Taking the lead, the Lady Warriors’ defense was on their A-game. Well-executed dives from Sims and spikes from Khloe Hogle ‘29 kept the ball alive, and lengthened already-intense rallies. A solid kill from Grace Kinnison ‘29 made Westwood’s spirit soar as they kept stealing points from the Dragons. Even with the Warriors’ solid defense and attacks, Round Rock was able to counter with quick saves and dives and took the lead. Continued miscommunication and missed spikes cost the Lady Warriors the momentum needed to win, and Round Rock took the first set 14-25.

“Even when one of us is down, it brings down the whole team,” Hogle said. “It’s better to lift up the whole team by having a good attitude and mood [during tough moments].”

Set two started fiercely, with a shanked ball by Round Rock to score the Warriors the first point of the set. Even with a strong head start for the Warriors, the Dragons began to catch up and close the gap. The game remained aggressive, with explosive kills and seamless passes from both teams. Although Westwood began to fall behind in points, the Lady Warriors stayed positive and lively. Keeping a close tail on the Dragons, the Warriors called a timeout to set strategy for the rest of the game. Out of the timeout the Warriors took the court, prepared to finish out the set. However, to much of their surprise, their momentum was cut short by the Dragons’ quick turnaround and run. Missteps caused the Lady Warriors to lose the final points and game, leaving the second set to the Dragons 15-25.

“We did a drill yesterday focusing on diving after the ball and hustling,” Sims said, “that helped our team today. [Moving forward] we’ll think more about tracking and following the ball, since those serves were pretty deep.”

Keeping their heads high after a tough loss, the Warriors look to bounce back against the Cedar Ridge Raiders on Tuesday, Sept. 16.