Destrehan came through in the clutch at home with a dramatic win in five sets against visiting Crescent City, 25-19, 25-9, 21-25, 21-25 and 15-13.
The Wildcats turned over most of its roster from a season ago with a large senior class departing, but the team is starting to find itself as it begins district play this week. The Wildcats were set to face Thibodaux in its first District 7-I match of the season on Wednesday (after press time) and today the team will host fellow River Parishes competitor Lutcher for a non-district matchup at 5 p.m. DHS will be back in district action next week when it travels to Central Lafourche Wednesday.
Destrehan (12-11) has battled for first year head coach Miranda Kelley all year long, and Kelley said this group has just been getting better – and smarter – on the volleyball court as the players garner more experience.
“It’s really been a group of players who have been very willing to step up and lead,” said Kelley. “Every week we reassess and look at stats, chemistry, what is working for us. It’s very competitive – players are pushing for time and compete for who is going to be taking a larger role in the next game. They want to win and they’re willing to work for it.”
Emma Creel had 27 assists and six digs against Crescent City. She has been strong this season for Destrehan, showing multi-dimensional skills on the court. Kelley has been just as pleased with her leadership, both on and off of it.
“She really controls the court,” Kelley said. “During the season, I’ve been teaching the girls to look on the other side of the net, to adjust our play to what they’re doing. (Creel) communicates to her teammates before every serve, noticing where teams have open spots or where their stronger players are. She’s really embraced that game-planning element … we have players who are really taking this team and making it their own, and she’s definitely one.”
Harmony Howard had 21 kills to lead offensively against Crescent City. Kumiko Xavier was the defensive anchor with 18 digs.
Kelley said Vivien Brouillette has also been among the team leaders, both vocally and in terms of productivity. And sophomore Jacee Pate, Kelley said, is stepping up and showing a lot of potential since earning more playing time.Pate had eight blocks in her first extended action against Walker recently.
“Everyone is starting to find their place,” Kelley said. “We’ve very flexible … if someone is having an off day or if someone is injured, we have girls who can step into a different role and help with that.”
The Wildcats have been eager to get district play rolling.
“We have a very competitive district,” Kelley said. “We know we’re about to face some heavy hitters, but we’re ready to show what we’ve got. We know a lot of people have counted us out, with the number of seniors we’ve lost and a new coach … we’re ready to go.”