The Grace Christian volleyball team opened the season with a victory over Nanih Waiya, then finished third out of 12 teams at a tournament.
The Lady Eagles swept Nanih Waiya 25-13, 25-15, 25-11.
“Nanih Waiya was our first game. We were a little nervous,” said coach Jamey Willers. “We were trying to figure out our lineup.”
The serving of Carly Peterson was a key to the victory. Grace Christian ran off nine straight points on her serves in the second set and 12 straight in the third set. The Lady Eagles had 14 kills in the match.
The tournament was held Friday and Saturday at Tuscaloosa Christian of Alabama. Grace Christian finished first in pool play Friday, with two-set victories over Brooklane Baptist Academy and Trinity Christian Academy and split sets against New Life Christian Academy.
In championship competition Saturday, Grace Christian was beaten by Tabernacle Christian School 25-22, 25-20, then defeated New Life 25-16, 25-19. All four opponents were Alabama schools.
Willers said the consistent play of Peterson was a major factor for the Lady Eagles at the tournament. She had 27 service points and Caroline Robbins had 23. Anna Gillis had 14 aces.
Maggie Phillips led in kills with 23, Anna Howell had 12 and Jasmine Kelly 11. Lenleigh Dobbs led the team in digs with 31 and service receptions with 62.
Grace Christian was set to play Louisville Monday and North River Christian Academy of Tuscaloosa Tuesday. The Lady Eagles have a home match with Heritage Academy Thursday.
