For the first time since March 5, Hayesville High School had a varsity sports team in action when the volleyball team travelled to Nantahala High School Tuesday, Nov. 17. The Lady Jackets were able to capitalize on the joy of starting their season with a 3-0 match win. Hayesville then travelled to Robbinsville on Thursday, Nov. 19 where they fell 3-0 to the Lady Knights.
Against Nantahala, the Lady Jackets looked to be firing on all cylinders. Hayesville got off to a hot start, winning the first set 25-13. The second set was a dominating show for the Lady Jackets as they were victorious 25-7. Hayesville finished the Lady Hawks off with a 25-13 win in the third set to take the 3-0 match win.
Unfortunately, the thrill of victory was soon squashed by the agony of defeat. Thursday’s match-up against Robbinsville had the eyes of Smoky Mountain Conference teams and fan. The two programs seem to be in the hunt for a conference championship every year and this early-season showdown could be the launching pad.
Robbinsville wasted no time in defending their home court, winning the opening set 25-19. In set two, Hayesville’s attack seemed stifled while the Lady Knights made the most of opportunities. The host team ended the set with a 25-13 win and put the Lady Jackets in a “must win” situation.
The Lady Jackets were able to put together rallies in the third set and at times seemed to be on their way to forcing a fourth set. Refusing to give Hayesville hope, the Lady Knights did what they needed to do to close out the set 25-20 and win the match 3-0.
Fans wanting to see the Lady Jackets in action can do so Tuesday, Dec. 1 when Hayesville hosts Cherokee. With the COVID-19 regulations in place, most fans will have to cheer on the team by watching the new “Clay County Schools” YouTube page. The match is set to start at 6 p.m.