PHS moves to 11-1 on the season  

The Powell High School volleyball team continues to prove one thing this season.

This is not 2013.

The Panthers’ complete 180 from last season’s start continued last Friday and Saturday following a perfect 6-0 record and victory at the MT/WY Border War at Billings Central Catholic High School in Billings, Mont.

PHS is now 11-1 through two weeks of the season, earning a tournament victory at Douglas to open the year followed by another dominant outing in Billings.

“The desire to continue to grow, that’s a big difference from last year. It’s just good to see all of the girls’ hard work pay off,” said PHS coach Cindi Smith. “We’re doing good things on the court and building off of our success.”

In pool play on Friday, matches were played to three sets, with the Panthers trouncing Laurel, Hardin and Glendive without losing a game.

On Saturday, bracket play saw the Panthers knock off Worland (25-19, 25-15) and Lovell (25-18, 25-22) before facing their toughest test in the form of Central Catholic.

PHS earned a first-set victory, 25-12, before Central bounced back with a 26-24 win. Powell closed out its tournament win with a 25-13 victory.

Emily Herman and Taylor Woodward were perfect from the service line. Breanna Donarski knocked down 21 aces over the weekend. Sophomore Kalina Smith continued her hot start, collecting 96 kills to go with 68 digs and nine blocks. Anissa Warner led her team with 12 blocks, and Jennie Ebersberger added 93 digs to the Panther cause.

Prior to the start of the season, PHS players talked about handling the pressure of defending their Class 3A state championship. Given the strong start to their season, it’s likely the target on their backs has become larger. Smith said her players know that teams will continue to play them tough, and despite the 11-1 record, there is always room for improvement.

“When you’re finding success, there will always be teams that are excited to compete against you,” Smith added. “And what I like is that we’re not doing everything right yet. We’re successful right now, but I’m glad there’s room for improvement because that will prevent the girls from thinking this is the best they’re going to be this year.”