Grier Volleyball Team Looks Strong and Ready to Win

Following the team’s early season victory against Sugar Valley Rural Charter School, the team was defeated at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Academy in Boalsburg, PA. Recently, the Foxes faced a tough double-header against Juniata Senior High School. Grier first faced Juniata’s JV team in a Best of Three match, and lost in the third game. Coach Ort reports that the point spread during the JV game was narrow, and that Grier went for an aggressive move at the very end, hoping it would pay off, but it just did not pan out this time. In the Best of Five match against Juniata’s Varsity team, Grier had better luck, winning the 1^st and 3^rd sets before clenching the match win in the 5^th set.

Psychology teacher, Mr. Arron Ort, serves as the team’s coach, a role he has held for the past 8+ years. He is joined this year by Assistant Coach Danielle Kelley. Coach Kelley is one of Grier’s upper level math teachers, and Coach Ort says her mathematical mind brings a lot to the table in terms of strategy.

Seniors Grace L. and Cas C. share the role of Team Captain. Both players have been on the team since their freshman year at Grier. Coach Ort confides that he has never had captains who were more active and responsible than these two. He is very impressed. Other team members include: Jammy J., Lily Z., Mary T., Lauren P., Cali D., Judy L., Abby S., Payton M., Valeria G., and Maria L. More than half of the players are new to the team. So many new players could be detrimental in a sport where teamwork and communication are essential; however, volleyball team veterans Cas and Grace report that the team is very cohesive. Each player is hardworking and very supportive of her teammates, both on and off the court. "It's like a family," adds Cas. 

The Volleyball team battles Mercersberg Academy on Friday, October 6^th and has upcoming rematches against Glendale High School, Saint Joseph’s Catholic Academy, and others.

Be sure to check out their full schedule and the schedules for all our varsity teams on the Athletics page. Our student athletes appreciate your support!

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_{By R. Woolfrey | Photo credit: K. Barr}