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Slow start hurts Lakers in district final loss KETTERING — Cincinnati McNicholas set the tone early and went on to defeat Indian Lake 25-6, 25-20, 26- 24 on Saturday in a Division II district volleyball final at Kettering Fairmont High School. The Lakers end the season at 20-6. “We had a very slow start,” said Indian Lake head coach Mandy Tidwell. “Even in game two we were down 7-2. From that point on, we started to get things turned around. But we were never able to completely get the momentum on our side.” Tidwell said nerves played a part in the Lakers’ struggles at the start of the match. “I think the girls were intimidated coming into the match,” said Tidwell. “It took them awhile to get confidence in themselves and realize they could play to the level of their competition.” With a large group of girls returning for next season, the Lakers will be poised for another tournament run next year. “We had 11 girls play in this match and seven of them will be back,” said Tidwell. “I am hoping we can make it back to district next year and build from this experience in future tournaments.” Sadie Oyer provided a bright spot for the Lakers with seven kills, five stuff blocks and five digs. Kaylee Clark also had a solid match with four kills and a 10-10 serving effort. Also for Indian Lake, Lauren Brademeyer was 9-9 serving with six digs, Jessica Lininger was 7-8 on serves received and had eight digs, Brooke Walton tallied six assists, Kirsten Brademeyer had eight assists and six digs, Devin Grandi tallied four kills and Cori Blackburn was 10-10 on serves received. Despite the loss, Tidwell was still upbeat about the success of her team this fall. “The girls improved so much,” said Tidwell. “For them to come out and accomplish what they did says a lot about these girls. I am really proud of what they accomplished.” McNicholas (18-7) advances to play Tippecanoe in a regional semifinal Thursday at Wilmington. |