In a packed gym on Thursday of Spirit Week, the Cougars took a valiant loss against Cheyenne Mountain last Thursday. In a three set match, determined twice by fewer than five points, the Cougars struggled to find their rhythm against the powerful defending 4A State Champions.

The Cougars encountered a pressing challenge from Ellie Gubser, 12, a dominant 6’4” middle blocker, who racked up 10 kills and 5 blocks over the course of the match. The defense, seemingly less potent than the rest of their season has seen, the offense struggled to find momentum. However, Jaelyn Hershberger, 11, contributed 12 kills and Mara Abernethy,11, 10.

Stormie Wells, first year head coach,was proud about the team’s effort, “I felt that we were terrific at supporting other each other, even when things weren’t going our way. That’s exceptionally hard to do, and I’ve never seen a group do so well.”

With their third loss of the season the Cougars plummeted to 13th in 5A team rankings. Rock Canyon leads 5A, but 4A State runner-up Lewis Palmer is at the top of state overall rankings, supported by their three dominant seniors.

As the Cougars look towards their match against Pine Creek on Thursday, they are focused on “playing one point at a time” according to Wells. To make their desired trip back to the 5A State Championships in November are focusing on improving with every touch on the volleyball, and the journey instead of the outcome. “This is a chance to have fun and experience competition together.” As the Cougars enter league pay leading up to the postseason, they are focused on clinching a top 12 ranking to host 2 top 36 ranked teams.

Come support the Cougars on Tuesday, October 4, at Coronado for Pink Out Night! There will be free shirts and tons of spirit for the game at 6pm against Liberty.