By Ava Fleckten
The Rye High School girls volleyball team has been practicing hard all season — their motto is “Fearlessness” — and they’re ready for the first round of sectionals, which start today.
With almost an entire starting lineup of returning players, the chemistry and camaraderie on the court has be strong. The squad currently has a record of 10-6.
“We started out this season with an enormous amount of confidence,” head coach Geri Jones said. “Even with some of the losses we’ve had, we’re like ‘Okay, who’s next.’”
Jones said junior Emma Lunstead has been a standout player this season, because of her ability to read the the other team’s serve and pass perfectly to her setter. On defense, she’s quick and determined to dig out every ball; she had 26 digs in a five-set match against Byram Hills.
“We’ve had coaches come to us and tell us that their strategy is to not hit the ball anywhere near Emma,” said Jones.
In a four-set win over Harrison on Oct. 8, setter and senior co-captain Ashley Dehmer set a personal record at 47 assists in one game. Jones said Dehmer has improved significantly since last year, learning to successfully control and direct the ball.
On Oct. 16, Rye swept the Eastchester Eagles in three sets during their annual Dig Pink game to raise money for breast cancer research.
Jones also highlighted the talents of middle blockers senior Co-Captain Erin Ball and junior Phoebe Greto, as well as outside hitters senior Anna Nolasco and junior Valeria Medina.
“When they’re on fire, they’re unstoppable,” said Jones.
Rye headed into its last regular season game in second place in the league, behind Byram Hills.