Wolfpack Split Matches in Thursday Triangular, Energetic Spark Equals Win Over Homer
Holli Jackson
Wolfpack Split Matches in Thursday Triangular, Energetic Spark Equals Win Over Homer
The TCNE Wolfpack endured an up-and-down night of volleyball on Thursday, September 4, dropping their opening match to Humphrey-Lindsay before storming back to sweep Homer in the nightcap.
TCNE struggled to find rhythm in the opener, falling 18-25, 20-25 to a sharp and disciplined Holy Family squad. Early miscues and a silly mistakes kept the Wolfpack chasing points, and despite a late push in Set 2, they couldn’t overcome the Bulldogs’ consistency.
But the turnaround came fast. Against Homer, the Wolfpack flipped the switch, riding the firepower of senior outside hitter Joslyn Mackling, who turned in a monster line of 21 kills and 18 digs. Mackling’s ability to terminate in high-pressure moments proved decisive, especially in a nail-biting 25-23 first set that swung momentum squarely in TCNE’s favor.
From there, the Wolfpack seized control. Kiya Tornez delivered 16 kills while anchoring the back row with 36 serve-receive passes, steadying the Wolfpack’s ball control. Setter Ally Belt orchestrated the attack with poise, dishing out 35 assists to keep the offense balanced and unpredictable. TCNE closed the second set 25-19, finishing the night with renewed confidence and energy.
The split moves TCNE forward with a 2-1 record on the season, evidence of both where they must tighten up — early-match intensity and serving pressure — and where they can dominate: on the outside, in the back row, and behind Belt’s consistent setting.
Next up, the Wolfpack will look to carry the momentum from their Homer sweep into next week’s matchups with Howells-Dodge and Pender, as they continue to sharpen their early-season form.
Holli Jackson