AKRON – Tippecanoe Valley was consistent and solid where Wawasee was not, and the result was a 25-16, 25-21, 25-13 home sweep for the Lady Vikings volleyball team Tuesday night. Wawasee showed signs of season-opening jitters, falling behind 6-0 and 16-5 in the opening game. After falling behind 5-1 in the second game, Wawasee came back to tie the game at 9-9 and stayed closer the rest of the way. The third game saw Valley take a 16-6 lead and keep the pressure on Wawasee with consistent, steady play. At times the Lady Warriors seemed confused, even serving the 18th point with only five players on the floor, prompting head coach Chris Cole to call timeout. “My (main point of emphasis) is on communication first, pass second, and then we can execute,” Cole said. “If we don’t communicate first, we run around like a bunch of rats with our heads cut off. “It’s a new system for them, and I think they got a little uptight. When they figure out what they need to do and how they need to do it, they’ll calm down and be a much better team.” For a squad starting three freshmen, Valley showed a lot of poise in the sweep. Lady Vikings head coach Mallory Eaton said she’s been happy with the mindset of her team so far this season. “I told them ‘this is your year, and you can make it what you want it to be,’” Eaton said. “Whatever your expectations are, you’re going to meet those. “They’ve made up their mind they’re going to compete with passion as a team. When everybody has a job and feels like they’re doing their part, they’re happy and that makes me happy.” Both teams return to play Thursday night. Valley will host West Noble and Wawasee will host Fairfield.
