Red Devils play Providence on Thursday in week of formidable opponents

by Austin Bainbridge

The JHS girls’ volleyball team snapped an eight-game losing streak against Madison and now faces Floyd Central today.

The Highlanders have not lost a game in over two weeks — to the same team JHS plays Thursday: Providence.

“I do feel a little underprepared, but I’m hoping we can get a win in at least one win of these two games. If we do that I’d call it a success,” said sophomore outside hitter Audrey Cheshire.

On Thursday’s sweep of Madison, the sole senior on the team, Mattie Barker, had her own student section and was thrilled about it.

“I loved my Senior Night. It was so cool seeing everybody show up just for me. It felt really special and amazing,” said Barker.

Barker, one of the most trusted backrow players on the team, is going to have to handle spikes from Floyd’s Georgia Tech commit Macy Sorg.

“That’s going to be a hard one. I just have to do my best reading her and hope for a little help for some tips or blocks up front,” said Barker.

The team expects outside hitter Jayli Burris to continue the tear she’s been on, including a 10-kill performance against New Albany.

“I think I’m going to keep it going. I don’t know why it took so long to get going, but I’m going to keep it going,” said Burris.

Even principal Pam Hall has her attention on the program this week and what a win could do for the team.

“Well, to be the best you have to play the best, and I really hope we can get one this week. That would be really big for these girls and I’d love to see it,” said Hall.

Both Floyd Central and Providence are formidable opponents, and coach Wes Briscoe is aware.

“They’re both such strong teams. Floyd is one of the best teams in the region, and they’ve really only lost to Providence around here, so this is going to be a tough one this week.”

Jeff plays Floyd Central at 7:30 p.m. at Jeffersonville.