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The Pittsburg State volleyball team started their 2021 season off on Saturday, playing an inner-squad scrimmage before the real games begin next week.
The team held a scrimmage on Saturday, August 28, which allowed fans to come watch and see what to expect in the upcoming season. The Red & Gold Scrimmage put the team head-to-head against each other and showed off what they have been working on during the offseason. It was also an opportunity for the team to learn and grow from any mistakes before the season officially starts.
“It felt so good being back on the court in a game-like situation,” senior Claire Sandvig said. “Even though we did get to play some games last year, it is super exciting getting back on the court knowing this year is back to a normal schedule.”
Gorilla fans have a lot to be excited about after the scrimmage, and the team feels that even though they are satisfied with how they played, there is still time to improve before the real games start.
“I think we could improve on getting ahead early in the game and not digging ourselves a hole,” senior Kayla Neigenfind said. “With that being said, also staying ahead and knowing how to finish.”
Both teams went on large runs throughout the scrimmage, going back and forth throughout. Learning how to be consistent and stay consistent as a team will be one of the keys for success for the team, according to Neigenfind.
“I saw so much heart and passion on the side I was on during the scrimmage, but I was also proud of the way both sides fought for every point like it was game point,” Neigenfind said.
Neigenfind wasn’t the only person on the team that was excited about the outcome of the scrimmage. The team walked off the court with their heads held high and smiles on their faces, knowing that this team has a lot of potential to be successful.
“I believe that the team performed extremely well,” redshirt junior Emily Hadenberg said. “We had high energy, high competition, and lots of fun! We saw what we did really well and what we can continue working on this season.”
The high energy, passion, and natural talent that the Gorillas brought to the court is expected to continue and bring success to the program. The team feels that one of the things that sets them apart from other team’s is their high energy and competitive drive.
“We have a very talented and competitive group of girls, so Gorilla fans should expect high-level volleyball this year,” Sandvig said.
The team will travel to Fort Lauderdale, Flor. over Labor Day weekend to officially kick off their 2021 season. Fans can find their schedule on the Pitt State athletics website.