A rebuilding Destrehan team pushed Ben Franklin for five games in the Wildcats opening volleyball match of the season, but ultimately fell 16-25, 25-9, 20-25, 25-23, 15-12.Destrehan is in the midst of a rebuilding season, but Wildcats associate head coach Edward Borgstede said the team’s young group of players have shown much progress already and the early results are encouraging. Ben Franklin was a state semifinalist in 2015.
“We have more freshmen and sophomores on the floor than we have seniors,” Borgstede said. “We couldn’t be prouder of them and the way they fought against an older, more experienced team.”
Borgstede was brought onto the staff by new head coach Meagan Stock, in her first year leading the Wildcats. Destrehan is attempting to return to the postseason after missing it a year ago.
“We’re trying to get the program back on its feet,” Borgstede said. “I think this team’s outlook is very bright.”
Against Ben Franklin, Allison Carmichael served 13 aces and made 36 assists for Destrehan. Claire Dantin made 11 kills, while Gia Zeringue made 11. Dantin also had six blocks. Korinne Kimble had 31 digs and Mallory Lauman had 24.
“I know it was unexpected for us to go five sets with that team,” Borgstede said. “It was tight until the very end. Ben Franklin is a very tough program and has been historically.
Borgstede said the players have bought into the Wildcats’ new offensive system and are making great progress in the new defensive system.
“We’re playing total team volleyball, which is really encouraging at this stage,” he added.
The biggest key, he said, is the players are playing with aggressiveness and not hesitating to attack.
“Don’t watch it happen, make it happen,” he said. “That’s the big key. Overall, we just need to get on the court more. So many of these girls didn’t play much last year, being so young. Everything is brand new, but they’re learning quickly.”
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