FRANKFORT — Despite months of uncertainty over whether they would even have a season because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Grayling girls volleyball team took the floor Tuesday for a tri meet against Frankfort and Forest Area in Frankfort locked and loaded.
The Vikings (2-0) were able to celebrate a pair of wins, too, as they topped the homestanding Panthers, 2-1 (25-18, 25-17, 20-25) and then swept the Warriors in three straight (25-15, 25-22, 25-18).
“I thought we looked real good,” Vikings’ coach Tim Zigila said. “We came out pretty strong. Against Frankfort, I felt like my team came out and played with purpose.
“Just not knowing how long our season is going to last, they came out on fire and played well. We’ve seen Forest Area a few times over the years, but this is the first time we saw Frankfort. Frankfort had a nice team, and it was a nice start for us.”
Paige Clark, an outside hitter, finished the night with 15 kills overall. The Vikings’ setter, Alison Brown had 38 assists, while sophomore Kynadi Dole contributed 17 kills and junior Kenzie Castle served up six aces.
Zigila felt it was a good test for the Vikings, with both Frankfort and Forest Area possessing solid and experienced athletes. Forest Area brings back eight seniors from last year.
“It was a good start for us,” added Zigila. “I was a little disappointed it wasn’t the full eight-team tournament it was supposed to be, but we’re also just blessed to be playing so we’re happy with that.
“We scheduled seven tournaments this year, so we’re missing out on those big game dates. Unfortunately, we have to take what we can get. But the girls are anxious to play.”
Grayling plays at home Thursday in a dual match against Glen Lake and turn around to compete in a quad with Johannesburg-Lewiston, Mancelona and Gaylord St. Mary on Saturday.
