Blair blown away

NOV 3, NELSON H. KOBREN MEMORIAL GYMNASIUM—

The Blair girls' volleyball team fell to the Gaithersburg Trojans in an emotionally-charged, disappointing loss, ending the team's post-season run in the second round of the county playoffs, 13-25, 15-25, 19-25. The Trojans overpowered Blair's defense with a combination of superior height, leaping ability and precision kills. They employed excellent digs and blocks to keep Blair's offense in check, despite a valiant effort from the Blazers.

After defeating Damascus in the first round of the playoffs on Oct 31, this most recent loss was disheartening for the Blazers, especially for the team's six graduating players, who entered the season with high hopes. "I am more disappointed for the seniors," said Coach Anne Garrison. "I think we could have won," she added.

The Trojans dominated Blair, using a combination of strong spikes and a solid service game, an aspect of the Blazers' game that has been missing all season. The Trojans skillfully placed balls all over the court with consistently hard and accurate spikes, putting extra pressure on Blair's defense.

The Blazers lost the first game 13-25, unable to put together powerful plays when faced with the quick reflexes and strength of Gaithersburg's front row. In the second game, Blair again faced an early Gaithersburg lead and could not build the rallies needed to claim the match. Gaithersburg won the second game easily, 15-25.

The third game found the Blazers fighting desperately to stay in the match. The Blazers took the game point by point, giving up fewer errors and remaining either in the lead or close behind the Gaithersburg team. In the end, however, the Trojans clinched the victory with a well-placed serve that landed, untouched, just inside of Blair's baseline, out of reach of any Blazer.

Garrison felt her players improved dramatically from their last performance against the Trojans but could not overcome the strong serves, spikes and defense the Trojans displayed. "We both wanted to win really badly," she said. Although five of Blair's six starters graduate next June, Garrison is optimistic about the 2004 season. "It's going to be a different year. It's going to be tough, but it's going to be a lot of fun," she said.