March 28, 2024

Pella Christian opens volleyball season with a win

MARSHALLTOWN — Running the offense well, especially in the middle of the net, Pella Christian High’s Eagles soared to a season-opening win over host Marshalltown High’s Bobcats in four sets.

The Eagles quickly took control winning the first two sets of the non-conference match Monday evening. The Bobcats battled to take the third set.

“We played pretty well, dealing with the heat on the bus ride up and in the gym. We’re spoiled, being used to an air-conditioned gym,” said Cindy Nikkel, Eagle head coach. “We ran the offense and we were strong in the middle of the net, which opened up the outside hitting for us.”

The Eagles won 25-17, 25-21, 19-25, 25-23.

Senior setter Lauren Jungling was credited with 18 set assists for the Eagle offense. She also led the team with eight service aces. Pella Christian had 10 service aces as a team, but also had 10 errors in its serving game.

Becca Gritters, a junior outside hitter, delivered 11 kills at the net for the Eagles. Senior Logan De Graaf pounded down eight kills. Julia Dykstra, a junior, paced the Eagle defense with 16 digs on the night.

“The girls were moving and communicating well on the court. We always have things we  need to work on but for the first match of the season, I was pleased,” Nikkel said.

Pella Christian (1-0) go to Johnston Thursday for another non-conference match.

Nikkel said the Eagle freshmen won their match Monday and the Eagle junior varsity lost.