The Lady Wolverines downed the Bandys’ Trojans of Catawba, N.C. in the first round of playoffs Saturday, Oct. 20, winning three of the four games played.

Polk County played an exhilarating game with the hustle and spunk for which they are known. Coach Heather Claussen said she saw the victory as step in the right direction.

“We’re pressing forward trying to use every moment to prepare us for the next,” Claussen said.

No. 4 Maggie Phipps had a special night with incredible attacks, including 12 kills.

The Lady Wolverines dominated the first game, winning 25-12. By game two, Savannah Deaver, No. 7, had taken full advantage of the Trojan’s slow reaction and made strategic hits, where the Trojans never where able to return the ball.

By 13-5, Polk’s lead, it was evident the Wolverines were outplaying the Trojans all the way around. No. 2 Rebecca Mitchell and Phipps had the front covered, blocking Brandys’ return balls. At 18-9, Polk gained control of the ball, and with the help of No. 10 Chelsea Kelly’s consistent strong serves, Polk finished the game out 25-9. Kelly had six aces served for the night and totaled 25 points.

Then, in a weird turn of events, the Trojans caught the Wolverines off guard in game three.    Tied 15-15, Polk lost the ball and the lead. The Trojans were building their confidence and played at a different level of organization. They finished the game with a 20-25 win, shocking both the Wolverines and Wolverine faithful.

Polk County gathered their heads and went into game four determined not to repeat the same mistake. However, they were battling a team that had just earned a glimmer of hope. At no surprise, the score remained close early on, tied at 5-5.

Then Deaver and Phipps found their groove, and with clear communication, they were able to execute incredible kills. Katie Ruff was quick and versatile, ready to play the ball as needed.  Shayln Brown was also on guard, and produced 19 digs for the team throughout the evening.

Kara Overholt was sharp and tactical in her plays. Her setting was accurate and at one point, she was nearly in the bleachers to keep a ball in play. With 35 assists for the night and 13 digs, she was an all-around player for the team. The Lady Wolverines finished the Trojans off with a 25-9 victory, ending the night much as it had started.

Polk played Brevard in the second round of state playoffs Tuesday, Oct. 23 at home. See www.tryondailybulletin.com for results.