LocalSportsJournal.com
GRAND HAVEN — Ludington went 3-2 Friday in the Grand Haven Volleyball Invite, defeating Leland (25-18, 25-19), East Grand Rapids (25-22, 25-14) and Fremont (25-14, 25-16) while losing to Shelby (24-26, 16-25) and Grand Rapids Catholic (15-25, 21-25).
Maddy Vaara stepped up big in the front row, pounding down 44 kills to reach 1,000 for her career, while adding 30 digs and six blocks on defense.
Jordyn Anderson was the major facilitator with 78 assists and to that she added 19 digs, five kills, six blocks and three aces.
Karli Mesyar also had a big day, finishing with 47 digs and four aces, Mia Pung added 27 digs and three aces, followed by Mia Voss with 17 kills, four digs and three blocks. Ashley McPike contributed 13 kills and 16 blocks, Jaelyn Laird added 12 kills, six blocks and six digs and Mya Bryant finished with 16 digs.
“The girls played really well,” said Ludington coach Liz Holden. “We started off slow, but once we got moving, we didn’t let down. Maddy didn’t know how close she was (to 1,000 kills), so we prepared with balloons and a banner, and kept it a complete surprise for her.
“I called a time out, and the banner came out and everyone, including Leland players and parents, stood up for her and cheered. There was no calming the girls down after that. It brought them a new level of energy.”
Ludington begins West Michigan Conference Lakes Division play Tuesday at Manistee.
