After being eliminated from the Smoky Mountain Conference tournament, Hayesville’s varsity volleyball team awaited playoff seedings and schedules. When the information was released, the Lady Jackets found themselves a 17 seed and matched-up with 16 seed Rosman in the first round. On Saturday, Oct. 26 Hayesville made the long journey for a 2 p.m. match. The opening set made it appear that it would be an evenly matched affair but Rosman took care of business, winning 3-0 and ending the Lady Jackets’ season.
Set one can only be described as a marathon. With neither team able get to the 25 point mark with a 2-point lead, play continued. The Lady Tigers finally managed to get two scored in a row to win the set 30-28 and take a 10 match-lead.
It seemed like Hayesville had given it all they had in the first set and set two was dominated by Rosman with a 25-13 victory. Smelling the scent of victory, the Lady Tigers held off an attempt by the Lady Jackets to get the in the win column and ended the match with a 25-17 set win.
“We had many opportunities to win game one,” said Hayesville coach Tammy Dills. “The cards just didn’t fall our way. Losing that game somewhat toook the drive out of us, but we came back in game three and led most of it until we stalled out.”
As for the season, Dills said there were some great memories. “The highest accomplishment would be winning two straight against Swain to advance in the SMC tournament.” Other matches of note for the coach were beating Rosman in five sets during the regular season and coming back from a 2-0 deficit to win at Hiwassee Dam.
Dills said several groups contributed to the team’s success. “I would like to thank all the parents, fans, and communities continued support for our Hayesville volleyball programs."
Leaders at Rosman
Jocelin Buckner: 10 kills.
Jade Patterson: 15 digs.
Emily Byers: 14 assists.
Sydney Patterson: five aces.