Coming off of a brief corona virus hiatus and a win over Westwood, the Mineola Lady Yellowjackets had their way with the competition as hosts of a three-team play day last Saturday. 

Mineola dispatched Crossroads Academy 25-14, 25-22 and 26-24 before downing Dangerfield 25-12, 25-17 and 25-19.    

The difference between the first game of the Crossroads match and the last game of the Dangerfield match was stark and proved the value of playing a hearty pre-district schedule. 

Sixty percent of the points in game one against Crossroads were scored by mistakes: mis-hits, service errors or net violations. In contrast, the Lady Jackets finished the day in complete sync. The team was communicating, moving and playing with great anticipation. 

Coach TaShara Everett’s charges also demonstrated some ability to climb back into a game.

In game three against Crossroads, Mineola was down 0-7 at the outset. They rallied for eight straight points, taking a lead which they never relinquished.

It is difficult to highlight individuals in solid team wins, but the volleyball varsity veterans of Tahjae Black, Valerie Garcia and Brittany Pickle demonstrated consistent effort and practiced volleyball skill.

Mylee Fischer displayed uncanny court awareness and excellent reactions at the net, while Alyssa Lankford setting was almost always spot-on. 

Of note, newcomer Grace Finely logged significant game time and became a major contributor in the victories. 

The Lady Jackets will next be visiting Grand Saline on Friday, Aug. 28. The match commences at 4:30.