The Hal High Red Hawks junior girls volleyball team will be heading to the Central Ontario Secondary Schools Association (COSSA) regional finals full of confidence this week after winning every set across two games to capture Kawartha championship gold Feb. 12.
The young squad, made up of 13 players, have enjoyed a hugely successful season thus far, said coach Allie Paul. After battling for position in the COSSA West conference, competing with much larger schools in Lindsay and Fenelon Falls, the Red Hawks went into playoffs in Campbellford with cautious optimism.
“Our expectations were high, but grounded in the knowledge that anything could happen,” Paul said.
The girls breezed to a 3-0 win against Port Hope in the semi-final before going headto-head with the host school, Campbellford, in the final. Paul said the team rallied against some loud home support, and an injury stoppage in the first set, to record another 3-0 win.
“I am incredibly proud of this team, not only for their undefeated performance at Kawarthas, but for the dedication, growth and sportsmanship they displayed throughout the season,” Paul said. “They’ve set a high standard for future teams and their success is a reflection of their hard work and commitment.”
Hal High has a great track record of success in volleyball, with the senior team also winning their Kawartha championships Feb. 12. Paul said the squad is heading into COSSA Feb. 26 in Bay of Quinte hoping to secure another win.
All the girls on the team had prior playing experience, Paul said, giving her and fellow coach, Jami Marren, a “solid foundation to build on.” More than 30 girls tried out for the team, Paul said.
“Coming into the season, I approached it with the goal of running a truly competitive program. We focused on conditioning, communication, skill development and fostering a supportive environment,” Paul said, noting how she drew from the teachings of her old Hal High volleyball coach, Dan Gimon. “I wanted to channel his influence… he really inspired me to become a better athlete and shaped how I approach coaching.
“My goal was not just to win games, but to help these athletes grow in confidence, teamwork and skill,” Paul added.
She said the team has improved with every practice and game, giving them a great chance of competing with the best programs at COSSA.
“These girls never shy away from any drill in practice, no matter how physically demanding, and their willingness to push through challenges really set the tone for the team,” Paul said. “Their ability to read the game, set each other up for successful plays and maintain composure under pressure has improved dramatically [as the season progressed], which translated into their results on the court.”
With the senior squad also competing at COSSA Feb. 26, Paul said the two teams have an opportunity to raise the bar even higher for girls volleyball at Hal High.
