Niles 2-2-1 at Vicksburg Six Pack

Published 8:47 am Wednesday, August 22, 2018

NILES — It has been a busy start to the 2018 season for the Niles varsity volleyball team.

The Vikings were back on the court Monday at the Vicksburg Six Pack.

Niles went 2-1-1 as it defeated Plainwell and Otsego in straight sets, split with rival Lakeshore and were swept by St. Joseph and host Vicksburg.

“It’s been a busy first week for us,” said Niles coach Jenny Nate. “We played Friday, Saturday, Monday and we have faced a lot of various levels of competition. We need to work on our overall consistency and ability to finish tight matches. The girls have great attitudes, and I was pleased that no matter what the score they continue to play aggressive ball. We are all ready to finally have four days of practice this week to work on the aspects of our game that we need to focus on based on our play before we head to the Loy Norrix Invitational this Saturday.”

Nikki Nate had 32 kills to lead the Vikings, who also got 28 kills from Abbie Harpenau and 16 kills from Zoie Appleberry.

Nate also had seven blocks and Harpeneau four.

Trystin Schlutt led Niles defensively with 57 digs. Grace Florkowski finished with 40.

Bianca Pickens had 38 service points, while Nate and Emelyn Tucker finished with 26 and 23 respectively.

Tucker also had 77 setting assists.