Lady Hawks advance to Elite Eight for second straight year
By Staff
Clif Knight, Hartselle Enquirer
Danville High School’s volleyball team earned a return trip to the Class 3A Elite Eight by soundly defeating West End-Walnut Grove three games to none (25-15, 25-24 and 25-13) in a sub-state match at home on Oct. 28.
The Lady Hawks were paired against Clarke County for an opening round match at Pelham Civic Complex on Wednesday, Nov. 1, at 9:30 a.m. They entered the state finals with a 56-23 overall record and an unbeaten record in area, regional and sub-state competition.
The Lady Hawks got off to a fast start in all three games and trailed only once. In the first game they fell behind 11-8 but recovered quickly to regain the lead for good.
Senior Lauren Simmons was outstanding for the Lady Hawks. Play after play her height, leaping ability and overhand smashes proved too much for West End to handle. She was credited with 30 kills, seven blocks and four digs.
Alaina Fitzgerald had 11 kills and five aces. Bethany Evans had a team high 32 assists and six digs; Kassie Cowart had 10 digs; and Magen Linderman had six digs.
Simmons was named Most Valuable Player in the match. Joining her on the all sub-state team were Evans, Linderman and Cowart.
