by Jamie Harris
The Paw Paw Lady Pirates wrapped up their regional volleyball run with a powerful performance and a season full of heart, finishing third in the Region and fourth in the Potomac Valley Conference (PVC).
In their opening match of the regional finals, the Lady Pirates dominated Pocahontas County, sweeping the game in three decisive sets: 25-10, 25-12, 25-13. Senior Kyndal Corbett led the charge with a stellar performance, racking up 21 points and 12 aces. Sophia Ross added 7 points and 2 aces, while Shayla Tanouye delivered a balanced attack with 5 points, 4 aces and 10 kills. Alexis Kidwell contributed 5 points and 5 aces, and Abby Williams chipped in with 4 points, 3 aces and 3 kills, helping secure the sweep.
The momentum met a wall in the second match against Pendleton County, where the Lady Pirates fell in straight sets: 16-25, 15-25, 15-25. Despite the loss, the team showed resilience and determination. Tanouye again led the team with 4 points and 9 kills, while Kidwell added 4 points. Ross and Williams each contributed 3 points, with Ross adding 3 kills and Williams 2 aces. Corbett tallied 3 points, 1 ace and 4 kills, and Lydia added 2 points and 1 ace.
“The girls fought hard against the Wildcats but fell short every time we played them this season,” said Head Coach Holly Palmer, a longtime veteran of the program. “It’s hard to compete with teams who have numbers sitting on the bench ready to play.”
Reflecting on the season, Coach Palmer added, “I am extremely proud of this team, finishing fourth in the PVC and third in the Region. Every game they played, they battled to the end.”
With a season marked by perseverance, teamwork and standout performances, the Lady Pirates have much to celebrate and even more to look forward to in the seasons ahead.
Abby Williams (18) gets the ball up in the air, with Lydia Ross (14) keeping a watchful eye on the ball.
Sophia Ross gets under the ball.
Shayla Tanouye slams the ball back over the net in the first ever playoff game hosted by the Paw Paw Pirates. photos by Lori Younker
