Mason Has ‘Beastly Kills;’ but Falls to Panthers

By Kendra Webb (January 5, 2002)

The varsity volleyball team last night faced Bull Run District rival Rappahannock at home in what became a very close match-up. Sparked by all-around strong serving in the first game, making an astounding 21 of 22 attempts, the Mustangs proved they could get the ball in play, even with the absence of consistent server Leen Quintyn. Quintyn, missing the game due to bronchitis, is expected to return to practice by the middle of next week. 

The Mason 6-2 offense, ran by setters Kendra Webb and Laura Straub, had its moments with beastly kills by senior Adrienne Thompson, Webb, Straub, and junior Christine Hillegass. Unfortunately, their efforts were not enough as Rappahannock held their lead throughout the game to win 12-15.

In the second game, defense was surely the key as the Panther 6’1" powerhouse middle hitter showed her colors. Contributing with on-the-floor digs and all-around tenacious defense were seniors Beth Parks and Christina Christianson as well as sturdy blocks by Straub, junior Aysha Twose, Parks, and Webb. The team kept up its serving abilities making 22 out of 24 behind the line, this time with one apiece aces by Webb, Thompson, and Christianson. Co-captain Straub stood out offensively in the match by making off-balance hits that found their way into her opponent’s court. Even with the four-point comeback behind the serving of Webb, the Mustangs could not completely shut down their junior 6’1" foe, and lost the match along with the second game 10-15. 

Coach Barbara Mahony's varsity volleyball team is off to a 1-3  record in district play, but shows "marked improvement" (Photo by Grant Machamer)

The loss dropped the girls’ record to 1-3 in the district, but Coach Barbara Mahony showed her enthusiasm with the quality of play regardless. "I have no doubt the next time we see [Rappahannock] we’ll get a win out of it. Our team is improving by leaps and bounds and we’re sure to make a mark in the district by the end of it all." The girls will travel to Manassas Park next Wednesday the 9th hoping to fulfill their coach’s expectations by further making an impression within the Bull Run District.