On Tuesday September 8th the Tyrone lady eagles faced their rivals the Bellwood-Antis Blue Devils.

Bellwood dropped the first set 20-25, but rallied to beat Tyrone 25-22, 25-10 and 25-16 in the high school girls volleyball opener for both seasons.

Because Bellwood is a single A team, this loss does not affect playoffs for the lady eagles’ season.

“I think we just need to keep our mentality high,” said sophomore Lea Crofcheck, “as long as we have that, keep our heads up, and stay focused I believe that we’ll win more this year.”

Anslee Walk led Tyrone with 11 service points, including 2 aces and 29 digs during the Bellwood game. Carly Crofcheck had 23 assists.

Service points: Walk 11, Veit 6, Crofcheck 6.

“They are much more cohesive this year than last,” said head coach Michael Kraft, “and they take pride in the fact that not many people believe they can be the change in tides.  Last year, we had to develop a work ethic.  This year we are putting that work ethic into action and I think the girls are finally seeing the payoff.”

The team currently holds a small roster this year with only 14 girls between 9th and 12th grade.

“These fourteen girls are committed to winning and changing the culture of this program.  The strength is still in our youth much like last year,” said Kraft.

The lady eagles added two tournaments to their schedule knocking out Williamsburg and Central Mountain.

“Bald Eagle and Philipsburg will be at the top of the league, but if we can stay healthy we intend to be competing for those top spots despite our youth and public perception,” said Kraft, “Huntingdon and Martinsburg will also be competitive.”

“I’m excited for the Saint Francis tournament,” said junior Shaniah Lowery, ” some of the best Cambria County schools are there that we typically don’t see.”

Most schools start their volleyball programs in middle or elementary school, Tyrone has just started this this year. The biggest problem the team will face will be injuries because of the already small roster. Tyrone also has a young team. The girls are dedicated and the coaching staff is committed to bringing change to the program. 

“I remember beating Juniata Valley last year at the Bellwood tournament, it was an amazing feeling to beat a team that we play during season, and I hope to do the same thing again.” Said junior Maddie Veit.

The girls have been preparing since the beginning of August.

“Confidence plays a huge part in high school sports,” said Kraft, “I believe that this years team can be the change and put Tyrone on the map.”