Clare volleyball claims home win over Farwell

By BEN MURPHY

Cleaver Sports Writer

Two days after a disappointing loss to Beaverton, the Clare volleyball team was able to take care of business on Wednesday, Oct. 15. The Lady Pioneers were hosting inner-county rival Farwell in Jack Pine Conference play, and they defeated the Lady Eagles in straight sets, 25-13, 25-16 and 25-20.

“Despite battling illness, the team used the opportunity to shift lineups, focus on the joy of the game, and execute skills worked on throughout the week,” head coach Shannon Taylor said. “It was a full-team effort, highlighted by Kyley Wyman’s strong defensive performance in the libero role with 19 digs and one ace.”

Pamela Allen led the attack with 10 kills and six digs, Marlee Clark had eight kills, one block, six aces and one dig while Amelia Ryzyk ran things well as setter, getting 35 assists, four kills, 10 digs and one ace. Syerra Mills also had seven kills and two digs and Hadley Jones showed off her serving prowess with five aces.

“Our serving was sharp, and the team was solid in all areas of play,” Taylor said.

Stats for Farwell were not provided.

On Monday, Oct. 13, Clare lost a JPC match at Beaverton. This one came in straight sets, 25-18, 25-20 and 29-27.

“We struggled to find rhythm on their third contact and missed too many serves to build consistent momentum,” Taylor said. “Despite a strong push in the third set, they came up just short.”

The Pioneers had Mills lead the attack, as she had 12 kills and six digs while Ryzyk had 24 assists, one kill, one ace and six digs. Pamela Allen contributed eight kills, one ace and four digs while Wyman had three kills, one ace, one assist and she got her hands on nine digs as well.

Clare played at Meridian on Monday, and they hosted Pinconning on Wednesday for their annual Be the Change night.

“Proceeds go directly toward Be the Change Senior Scholarships and future acts of kindness and mental-health awareness activities,” Taylor said. “Our seniors will continue spreading kindness throughout the year, and your support makes it possible.”