by Liv O’Hara ’25
September 22, 2023
Team chemistry and a wide variety of skills have served the Tiger volleyball team well this season.
USN is off to a better start this year compared to last year, which team members say is a result of increased team unity and overall well roundedness.
As of September 18 the Tigers have 5 wins and 6 losses in district matches, beating Franklin Road Academy, Webb Bell Buckle, and Columbia Academy. The Tigers fell to big district champions like Providence Christian Academy, Battle Ground Academy and Middle Tennessee Christian School.
An integral part of a successful volleyball team is an all around skill set and cohesion. Head Coach Lauren Cox noted the team’s unity this year.
“The team’s support for each other has been exceptional this season,” Cox wrote in an email. “Whether it’s on the court during a match or in practice, players are constantly lifting each other up.”
Senior and captain Josie Whelan ‘24 recognizes the team’s chemistry.
“I think that since a lot of us have been playing together for a while now we have a good connection and we all really want to win,” Whelan said.
This chemistry was visible in their August 24 game against Franklin Road Academy, where the Tigers defeated the Panthers in four sets, (25-12, 25-15, 23-25, 25-21). Cox applauded the Tigers teamwork in her game recap on the team website.
“Another standout aspect of the Tigers’ performance was their impeccable teamwork. Every play seemed to flow seamlessly, as if the team was operating on a single wavelength,” Cox. wrote.
Team member Tate Barbieri ‘25 noted the team’s all around skill set.
“We’ve been doing really well on the net with our front row player’s attacks and blocks as well as a lot of digs in the back row so just our unity, our well roundedness,” Barbieri said.
These characteristics were seen in the Tigers’ game against Webb Bell Buckle on August 20, where the Tigers won in four sets (25-10, 25-21, 20-25, 25-17). Cox’s game recap highlighted the Tiger’s widespread talent.
“Their tight serve receive, powerful offense, and their precise defense put the Tigers on top quickly,” she wrote.
With hopes to make it to the state tournament, the Tigers will have to go up against difficult teams like Providence Christian Academy, Battle Ground Christian Academy, and Middle Tennessee Christian School. Cox knows that staying focused during big games will be key.
“An obstacle we might face this season is maintaining consistent focus and performance during high-pressure situations, such as critical matches or when facing tough opponents. Managing nerves and staying composed under pressure will be essential to ensure that our team can perform at their best when it matters most,” Cox said.
The Tigers aim to maintain their togetherness and take advantage of their wide range of skilled players to play hard against tough teams.
For fans it has been exciting to watch the team play as one cohesive unit.
Supporter Sawyer Beckwith ‘25 noted an exciting play made by Barbieri in a game against FRA.
“Tate had a pretty cool spike one time and the crowd got really hype,” Beckwith said.
Clay Payne ‘25, another supporter, noted the atmosphere of the gym.
“It could definitely get a little bit more rowdy,” Payne said.
Team member Eva Baler acknowledged the student section’s role.
“Having a hype student section always helps us play because the extra energy and support is good for team morale,” Baler said.
This week, the Tigers have been busy, with three matches in four days to start the week. They lost to Valor Collegiate on senior night in four sets at home.
“Despite the outcome, the Tigers left the court with their heads held high, proud of the memorable performance they put on for their fans and grateful for the senior players who had given their all to the team,” wrote Coach Cox in the match recap.
On Tuesday, they fell to Grace Christian in four sets on the road. Last night, they rebounded by defeating Columbia Academy in five sets on the road. They will turn their attention to preparing for the district tournament next week.
