In a close set, Athena managed to eke out a lead at the end and win 25-19. Both teams started slowly and serve dominated as neither team were able to consistently build an attack. Athena started with Eli setting, Julia starting for the first time in 4 weeks, Sam and Amanda through the middle and Alessandra as outside hitter alongside Adela.

Leicester Athena 2 Derby Darkstar 3 ( 25-19, 23-25, 7-25, 21-25, 6-15 )įor the second week running, Athena's regional team suffered fifth set heartache when they lost to Darkstar in another topsy turvy match. With a couple of new players yet to get onto court, with the return of Eve from maternity to look forward to and with a few juniors starting to turn up to training, next season could be a very exciting one. Sue came on for Ioana in the second set as setter and she showed great touch. After a very nervy start, Maria made an excellent contribution in defence and buzzed energetically around the court. Added to that, it was wonderful to see a couple of the newer players make their debut. Anna is developing as a player, although she does get very very nervous in matches so we are yet to see her best skills. Ioana's setting has also improved a huge amount and has developed a consistent serve.Īmanda showed why she has now made the step up to regional league with some killer serves, great hits and a solid tactical awareness.

Nikki has really improved over the season to the point where she is a starting outside hitter. Aleksandra has grown in confidence, her hitting and passing and serving are all getting stronger. Her setting has improved a huge amount as well, really impressive for someone only in her second season as a volleyball player. Charlie's leadership has grown and grown as the season has progressed and she encouraged and urged her team on throughout the match. The local league team has developed a core of players and that consistency has shown in the performances.

Athena volleyball club website