U16s Girls Volleyball vs AKIS 0-2 (15-25; 20-25)
This was an exciting time for sport at NAISAK as this game represented our first ever competitive girls volleyball game. For this game, the girls alongside coach Laura travelled to our neighbours AKIS for a QUESS Volleyball League game.
On arrival, there was a large crowd of students who had stayed behind to cheer on and watch the game. Although the atmosphere was fantastic, the added pressure clearly got to the girls, with the girls losing the first few points of the first game in quick succession. However, as the girls got rid of their nerves, they started to show fantastic volleyball which really demonstrated how far they had come in such a short space of time. Although the girls fought back in the first game, they could not claw back the early deficit, which saw them lose the first game 15-25.
Moving into the second game, the girls were resurgent based on the fightback from the first game. The girls started to show composure and started to put tighter three touch plays which allowed them to find space in their opponents’ half. The second game was close throughout with only 2 points separating the teams for most of the game. However, some service errors allowed AKIS to maintain and extend their lead towards the end of the game leading to a 20-25 defeat.
The girls were extremely proud of their efforts, especially since this was their first-ever game against a well establish volleyball team. After the half-term break, the volleyball season continues for the girls with games against EMS, GAAW and Oryx.
U16 Boys Volleyball vs QIS 2-0 (25-20; 27-25)
The U16 team went into this game with their confidence high after a good win in their last match. QIS looked strong in their game against AKIS but this did not deter our boys and they were focused from the start. The first game was close with the lead going back and forth to both teams but eventually, NAISAK won a run of points and finished up winning 25-20. The second game was even closer with both teams playing some excellent volleyball. QIS seemed to be able to return our spikes no matter how hard or well-placed they were. However, NAISAK’s resilience shone through and they were eventually able to win the game 27-25.
U16 Boys Volleyball vs AKIS 0-2 (28-30; 9-25)
In the second match of the evening, NAISAK faced up against AKIS. Feeling confident and hyped up from the first match, the NAISAK team were ready for the challenge ahead. AKIS had a strong spiking game and were tactically very aware of the space that was created from NAISAK blocking at the net. However, NAISAK adapted well to counter this. Having lost one of our strongest players due to other commitments, the NAISAK players stepped up their game and worked efficiently as a cohesive unit around the court. The game was a thrilling nail biter to the very end and both teams could not be separated, taking the game to the maximum 30 point limit. Unfortunately, AKIS came out on top winning the 28 – 30. The second was a different story. The NAISAK boys now feeling slightly weary from their back to back games and selfless efforts on the court and started to show a few cracks in their defence. The AKIS team seemed to thrive on this and their attack became relentless with a flurry of spikes. The second game finished 9-25 with AKIS winning the overall match 2-0.
Going forward, the NAISAK boys are feeling confident and are looking forward to their next match against Oryx school where a win here should see them into a medal position. The team are starting to look stronger each game they play and have even started to train in their own time outside of school. Coach Gavin said “I am extremely proud of the hard work and commitment the team has shown and their hard work is starting to pay off. They are showing a real sense of togetherness and teamwork on and off the court which is a pleasure to see”.
U14 Boys Volleyball vs AKIS 0-2 (15-25; 22-25)
The U14’s had a long wait until their game, waiting patiently until the U16’s finished their matches. With inspired confidence the team took to the court. They got off to slow start, falling behind by 5 points but soon found their rhythm. Unfortunately, by then the damage was done and after a few lapses of concentration the first game finished with 15-25. After a quick team talk and switch around, the U14’s came back in the second game fighting. The match was much closer and AKIS started to feel the pressure. However, AKIS overcame this and finished the game 22-25. The NAISAK team were disappointed at coming away without a win but were reflective of their performance. Coach Gavin said “the team have shown vast progress over the season and show great potential for the future. They just need to eliminate a few bad habits and refine their skills which will surely come with time”.
