The Ponies varsity volleyball team has experienced the exhilaration of hard-earned victories and learned lessons from narrow defeats. The season started off with challenging matchups that brought momentum and motivation, with a record of 11 wins and 8 losses going into October. The team aims to master communication skills and build encouraging relationships to strengthen their cohesiveness as the season progresses.
Stillwater swept the East Ridge Raptors 3-0 on Sept. 16. Despite the Raptors’ ranking 12th in the state, the Ponies rallied together to claim a victory.
“We beat East Ridge for the first time since 2018. That win gave us a lot of confidence and momentum,” volleyball head coach Sara Baumgard said.
In a highly anticipated game against Centennial on Sept. 5, the Ponies galloped to a win over the Cougars. Junior volleyball captain Ella Hartung saw the reward of hard work and determination.
“I was really proud of the team, because that was a game I felt we really came together in,” Hartung said.
The players focus on building friendships, which benefits their performance during matches. In the highly competitive sport, knowing their teammates improves coordination and creates a more supportive atmosphere.
“They’ve really invested in each other, in seeing the value of those relationships,” Baumgard said. Baumgard goes on to say the growth of the team is improving, and that the performance of the players has noticeably “improved in passing and serving.”
The players, coaches and captains have found communication to be a key value. Senior volleyball captain Courtney Peters said communication is a great way for the players to help one another succeed and prepare for upcoming matches. The players find ways to improve, like talking, journaling, being patient and analyzing practice and games.
Alongside good communication, the team strives to promote a positive environment on and off the court. They put each other first to help achieve goals. Even if a player does not get game time, they can still do their best to support the team and help others improve.
Baumgard added on to Hartung’s statement, explaining, “We’re competing at a high level, so that might mean that you aren’t playing. Sometimes that’s a hard pill to swallow, but it just means you’re competitive.”
As the team moves forward, the Ponies volleyball team plans to continue to focus on building morale and camaraderie. Their trajectory is set for sectionals and the state tournament, which they will face with fierce dedication and strong friendships.
