On February 12, the 7th and 8th grade girls’ volleyball teams from Jefferson and Jackson Middle Schools competed at Willowbrook High School.
D45 volleyball fans from both schools came out in support of their student-athletes. The first game was between the 7th-grade teams, with the Jackson Jaguars winning by taking the first set 25-6 and the second set by a score of 25-17.
Jackson 7th Grade Coach Gregg Huckstadt said his team was very excited to play against Jefferson.
“It always means a little more when you play against your rival,” said Huckstadt. “And to have it on the big stage of Willowbrook adds to the thrill of the match.”
Huckstadt felt his 7th-grade team played extremely hard, showed tremendous teamwork, and all 12 members impacted the final result.
“Our serve game was fantastic, which kept Jefferson off balance and out of their offense. We passed the ball very well, which led to our setters being able to run the offense and put it where the hitters could best attack.”
Huckstadt added that, as of February 13, the team remains undefeated and continues to grow with each match. “They possess a great work ethic and attitude.”
Huckstadt was also very impressed by the Jefferson team. “I also applaud Jefferson for their constant hustle and aggressiveness to go after every ball,” said Huckstadt.
The 8th-grade teams battled next. Ultimately, the Jackson Jaguars were victorious, with scores of 16-25, 25-22, and 15-11.
Jefferson 8th-grade coach Kelly Lopez said her team is always excited to play their crosstown rival, Jackson.
“They were nervous about playing at Willowbrook since they didn’t know how many people would be there,” said Lopez. “Last year, when we played them, we won one set and lost two as well, so we knew we had a good chance of winning.”
Still, Lopez was encouraged by the Wildcats’ effort. “They know what they are capable of and need to always communicate and work as a team.”
Lopez felt it was a good transition for the girls to play in a high school gym and that the experience helped build confidence.
Congratulations to the Wildcat and Jaguar players and coaches for competing so well and putting on an entertaining event for fans!