The Reeths-Puffer volleyball team has been playing better in recent weeks, but the Rockets may have to lift their game up even more to compete in the newly-configured O-K Green conference.
One of the new members, Caledonia, came to R-P and handed the Rockets a straight set loss on Thursday in the first match of the O-K Green season.
Caledonia was pretty much in control for the entire match, winning 25-13, 25-10, 25-16.
“Our conference schedule is one of the toughest in the state, with one team state ranked and three teams honorable mention,” said R-P Coach Justin Birr. “Our girls continue to work hard and compete, and I am proud of them for that.
R-P's Aubree Wilks (16) keeps the ball in play. Photo/Joe Lane
“Overall, our team had some great moments where we battled hard. Where we were clearly outplayed was serve and serve-receive. We did not serve the ball tough enough, so they ran their offense with ease and got quick side-outs. We also struggled against tough float serves in serve-receive.
“However, when we got a good pass, I think we did a pretty good job putting the ball away.”
Alissa Klopp paced R-P with six kills while Mairyn Peterson added four.
Aubree Wilks led the defense with 10 digs and Klopp had four while Peterson registered two blocks.
Reeths-Puffer fell to 8-8 overall and 0-1 in conference play.
The Rockets will return to action on Sept. 26 at Mona Shores.