On Thursday, Sept. 1, the Fuquay Varina High School Bengal Volleyball team traveled to play the South Garner Titans. The Bengals secured their first conference win of the season as they took down the Titans 3-0. The team came into the game with a strong attitude, ready for the win. The Bengals have had a rough start to their season, despite their record of 2-6. 

“This win comes to the team as a strong morale booster,“ said senior Sophie Behrendt.  “We came onto the court with our heads in the game.¨ Behrendt and the team are looking forward to the match, are working hard in preparing, strengthening our defense, and putting more effort into offensive aggression.  Practice is key to our success, and Coach Klink is supporting us and our game every time we get out on the court.”   

Junior Zoe Chesson was the player of the match with 11 kills, 17 attack attempts, and no attack errors. Junior Kayla Jones had the only solo block of the game for the Lady Bengals, Junior Ava Woodside had 10 receptions, and Senior Kathryn Hanks led the team with 14 assists. Senior Sydney Lemmers came to the game full of aggression and brought her ¨A¨ game by putting up points with her kills. Behrendt shared, “We clinched the win in 3 sets, 25-6, 25-20, and 25-12.” Behrendt is a captain and said before each game, “I like to listen to music with my Beats, get in the zone, and not really talk to anyone.¨ According to Behrendt ,the team as a whole stretches and warms up together before every game. Motivational pep talks inspire her and the rest of the team.     

For student athletes, winning is always the goal but there is so much to being on a team. Chesson said, “It’s important for each player to remember they are looked at by many peers as an example. Having fun, showing sportsmanship, positivity, hard work, and teamwork are keys to success. This year’s biggest competitors will be Cleveland, Clayton, and Corinth Holders.” Behrendt and the team are looking forward to the match, working hard in preparing, strengthening our defense, and putting more effort into offensive aggression.¨

The next game is on Tuesday, Sept. 20, and is against the Garner Trojans at home.