Goodrich’s varsity volleyball season came to an end at the hand of Flint Powers, but it was still a season of significant accomplishments for the Martians.
The host Martians reached the district finals Saturday, Mar. 4 before losing to the Chargers in three games, 25-13, 25-13, 25-16. The Martians finished the season 28-18-6.
After a 20-minute rest, Goodrich came out flat and Powers easily won the 1st game. The Martians rallied in the second game and was ahead 21-20, but could not hold the lead. In game three, Goodrich fell behind quickly and never could get going.
In the semifinal match earlier that day, Goodrich defeated Mt. Morris in five games. Mt. Morris came out strong, winning the first two games of the match. In game three, Goodrich jumped out to a 12-6 lead and never looked back. Seniors Tara Garman and Alyssa Bertrand combined for 11 serves to help seal the victory.
In game four, Bertrand served seven straight serves as Goodrich jumped out to an early 8-1 lead. Senior Sarah Sweet served five straight serves, bringing the score to 14-3. Senior Katie Birch finished the game with five straight serves, causing a fifth and deciding game.
Game five was a defensive battle with neither team putting the game away. Junior Ally Robb put Goodrich up 12-10 with her serving and defensive play. Off of a Mt. Morris missed serve, Birch sealed the victory making the score 14-11, and strong defense won the last point.
At the Genesee Area Conference league meeting Monday, Mar. 6, all five seniors were awarded honors. Garman was selected unanimously, for a third straight year, to the first team all-league. Bertrand was also selected first team all-league.
Birch was selected second team all-league, while Sweet and Nancy VanVlack both received honorable mention all-league honors.
‘This has been one of the best Goodrich volleyball teams I have coached,? Goodrich coach Richard Sirna said. ‘This particular group of girls really bonded with each other, and was a pleasure to coach. All five seniors will be missed as they brought experience and cohesiveness to the team. Tara and Alyssa (four- and three-year varsity players, respectively) will be difficult to replace, but there are two or three freshman and sophomores that are up and coming. Those girls, combined with this year’s junior players, should make Goodrich strong again next year.?