Johnie Logue
Sports Reporter
Monday night was a night to be remembered as the Cole Camp volleyball program raised money for cancer awareness with their annual Pink-Out event. It was Senior Night too as Cole Camp seniors Gracie Thompson,Tori Luebbering and Emily Burdick all played their last game on their home floor. Following the matches, Burdick was also honored for recording her 750th career kill over the past weekend.
Cole Camp, in a gracious moment, also recognized Warsaw seniors Laney Arnett, Angela Konopasek and Jaylen McCullick.
The game itself saw Cole Camp defeat Warsaw in three sets 25-22, 25-17 and 25-12. The first two sets were furious battles with several entertaining back-and-forth volleys between the two teams.
Warsaw received several net violations throughout the evening which cost them dearly.
When asked, Warsaw head coach Kelsi Brosnahan explained, "I moved some players around to gain some height. Inexperience and playing new positions hurt us."
Other than that, she said, "I thought we played well the first two sets. We are a young team with the three seniors and only one junior. I feel the experience we are gaining will help us in the future."
The other problem Warsaw had was containing Cole Camp freshman Andrea Dieckman, who had 10 kills and several huge blocks.
Cole Camp Coach Abby Massingill commented, "We have been working with her. The players around her are encouraging her and that helps."
She went on to say, "We played well tonight. We were working together and that is always fun to watch."
Lady Bluebirds sophomore Marilyn Hesse, another force at the net, also had 10 kills. Olivia Pilante had 33 assists and Burick had 22 digs.
Warsaw stats were unavailable, but Tanna Howe, Maylee Slavens, the three seniors among others had notable performances.
Asked about coming to Cole Camp, second year Warsaw coach Brosnahan commented, "It is different. I taught here for eight years and coached here. I have tried to implement their coaching technique at Warsaw. It is always fun to come here."
Seniors Gracie Thompson and Emily Burdick were filled with mix emotions after the game.
"It is sad, but was great to play with these girls. We played well tonight and worked together as a team," Thompson said.
Asked about beating Warsaw, she added, "It is always fun to beat Warsaw."
Burdick commented, "It was our last home game and I wanted to win. These girls will improve and will be amazing in two years."
Help is on the way for Warsaw as they won the JV game in two sets and the C game in two sets.
They were 2-25-2 a year ago and now 4-14 this season. They were moved up to Class 3 and will have played in their district game in Kansas City on Tuesday as you read this.
Cole Camp, at 17-15-1 played Tipton on Wednesday in Versailles as the third seed in their Class 2 district.
