Week #7 - Streaky Play and Sneaky Middle Hitters

Dave Levy, Athletic Director
The Badgers led 14-10 in the third set before an explosive eleven point service run from Emory. When the scoreboard hit 25 for the third time this afternoon, Tandem increased their win streak to five consecutive matches! It hasn't been easy. After defeating RMA in straight sets at home last Wednesday, the team drove over the mountain to Staunton - and found a way to win without two of their usual starting six. The victory came with major contributions from Taylor - an excellent passer throughout all four sets - and Ella - who ran off a service streak of 10 straight points that included four aces.
It was a quick turnaround for Tandem, and after trailing 3-0 in the opening set, Maya's service run and Lola's vicious outside hitting gave the Badgers a lead they never gave away. Wakefield consistently tried to block Lola - but her fireballs went right through their arms... or, on other occasions, Lola hit a sneaky cross court shot left to right over the net. When Maya was outside hitting, it was the same result. Or when she was hitting from the back row... sheesh! With Emory's defensive presence at the net, Lola swinging big and Sofia saving balls in front of the bleachers, the Badgers took the opening set 25-15.
 
In the second set, Althea was incredible in the middle. She had a series of big time hits - each finding a spot behind the ten foot line in the middle of the floor. The player of the night, Althea was a surprise presence at the net - and Emory and Sofia were both enjoying setting her. The Badgers took the middle set, 25-15.
 
The Badgers put it away with a sequence of big serves from Claire, a few Sofia Slams, more magic from Althea in the middle and the aforementioned streak from Emory. The Badgers won every long rally, largely due to the court awareness of Zella and Cora, diving on the floor to extend each play.
 
Tandem improves their overall record to 6-3, 4-1 in the GPAC. They're also undefeated in fun!
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Tandem Friends School is a co-ed Quaker day school for grades 5-12 in Charlottesville, Virginia.
 
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