Lake Oconee Academy volleyball has already faced its share of adversity this season, but the Titans have responded as head coach Chris Ingle hoped.
After opening the season with losses to Athens Academy and East Jackson, LOA bounced back with four straight victories.
Ingle said the early struggles forced the team to make major adjustments, and the Titans have responded with plenty of fight.
The season actually began on a high note against Athens Academy, when the Titans won the opening set 25-15. But their team leader was unable to finish the second set and missed the remainder of the night, forcing Lake Oconee Academy to quickly change an offense that had been built around her during the summer.
“It took us a few sets to figure things out, but once the girls settled into the new system, they really took off,” Ingle said.
The Titans eventually found their rhythm, and that adjustment has played a major role in the four-match winning streak.
Ingle said the team’s senior leadership has been one of its biggest strengths, particularly when it has had to change its approach on the fly.
“Completely changing your game plan in the middle of playing three tough opponents is incredibly difficult,” Ingle said. “Our girls showed tremendous grit and resilience. They never gave up or made excuses, and they kept fighting through adversity.”
Serving has also been a major strength for Lake Oconee Academy.
Ingle said the Titans have nine strong servers, providing depth and giving the team a way to keep opponents uncomfortable while the offense adjusts.
Lily Dominy has taken on an increased role after the Titans moved from a two-setter offense to one setter.
Ingle said Dominy adapted quickly and helped stabilize the team, but he has been pleased with the contributions coming from throughout the roster.
The Titans got another confidence boost against Walnut Grove, a team that had played two close matches against Athens Academy and East Jackson. Lake Oconee Academy won both sets against Walnut Grove by large margins.
“That gave our girls a lot of confidence that what we were doing was working,” Ingle said.
Moving forward, Ingle said the Titans will continue to emphasize fundamentals, particularly serving and passing. He also believes the team’s willingness to put the group ahead of individual success could make this season special.
“I expect this team to compete against every opponent on our schedule and to fight with everything they have for each other,” Ingle said.