Republic celebrated volleyball Senior Night with a win to open conference play, sweeping Neosho at home, 25-19, 25-8, 25-21. The win was Republic’s sixth in a row, and its 10th of the season overall.
“Our first conference win, that’s always a good thing,” said coach Allison Davis. “We’re meeting a lot of goals this season. We’re writing these on the board after we accomplish another goal, and I’m just super proud of this team.”
Before the varsity match, Republic honored two seniors: Megan Decker and Mykenzie Hicks. After the win, Davis praised their role on the team.
“They were sophomores when I came into this program and probably a couple of the most memorable seniors. (They’re) passionate about the game. They love this team. They love this program, and their leadership is just unbelievable,” said Davis. “They just want to be those seniors that the underclassmen look up to. They want everybody on the team to have a positive experience, and they just have such great positive leadership.”
Hicks had a big night, leading the team with 12 digs and adding five service aces. Avery Riggs also had five aces. Kailey Manes led the team with ten kill, and Rilynn Finley had two blocks up front. Payge Plank had 44 assists.
Republic remains home later this week, as conference play continues.
“We’ve got to come out fighting. It’s a big game for us against Carl Junction, and I’m just excited for what this team is going to do.”