The Lakers volleyball team traveled to Toledo today to play in the Owens Invitational. The Lakers faced the Muskegon Jayhawks in their first match and dropped a tough 3-1 (25-17, 23-25, 21-25, 8-25) decision before rebounding against the Henry Ford Hawks and taking the match in convincing fashion, 3-0 (25-18, 26-24, 25-16). Against the Jayhawks, the Lakers had a solid defensive effort, but were not able to muster enough offense in the end. Tne Lakers came out witha lot of intensity as they took game 1. Games 2 and 3 were back and forth as the Lakers fell just short. The Jayhawks then rode that momentum to the game 4 win. Coach Watts commented. "I was pleased with our defensive effort overall, but our serve receive let us down a bit in this match. We still had good energy and we're looking forward to our next match."

Sydney Park led the way with 12 kills and 10 digs. Avrie Shenkel finished the game with 10 kills while Samantha Winter finished with 25 assists and 3 kills. Rebecca Ferrell collected 5 aces and 4 digs while Zoe Babnik recorded 7 digs and an ace. Abby Karasek chipped in 3 kills and 3 assists while Estella Dotson picked up 3 kills and 2 aces for the Lakers.

Against the Hawks, the Lakers jumped out early and never let up. The Lakers were in control most of game one before battled to an exciting 26-24 win in game 2. The Lakers then rode that energy to a convincing game 3 win. Coach Watts commented, "Credit to Henry Ford as they were scrappy, but I was really pleased with our hustle and our serves. We really focused in this game - I was very pleased with our effort."

Sydney Park finished the match with 11 kiills in 18 attacks and also picking up 9 digs. Samantha Winter picked up 25 more assists while Avrie Shenkel finished with 10 kills and a dig. Estella Dotson recorded 6 kills and 10 digs while Alyssa Lino added 6 kills. Rebecca Ferrell finished with 7 digs and 2 aces while Zoe Babnik chipped in with 3 digs and an ace. Abby Karasek recorded 2 kills, 2 digs, and an assist in the Laker win.

Player of the Day:  Sydney Park. Coach Watts commented, "Sydney is really growing with every game and coming into her own as a threat. Sydney led the team in all categories today while playing a new position for her. She's a strong player, great person, and awesome teammate - very positive and hard-working."

Watts' Word: "In addition to Sydney, Avrie Shenkel played outstanding. Avrie had attacks that were game changing. She was also a voice when we needed one on the floor. Samantha Winter was also excellent today with her setting and precise serving. Sam's also broadening her skillset with more frequent attacks. I'm really pleased with the entire team's effort. They are all working hard and coming together as a team. I'm looking forward to our continued development during the season. This was an extremely long day - we'll get some rest and come ready to play two more tomorrow."

Next Up: The Lakers continue invitational play tomorrow (8/31) as they face the Mott Bears at 9am and then finish the day by facing the St. Clair County Skippers at 12:30 pm.