The Alliance High volleyball team ended their season during district competition on November 1, losing to the Gering Bulldogs 1-3 (24-26, 25-20, 11-25 and 16-25). The Bulldogs finished their 2011 season with an 11-20 record.

“We ended the season on a very high note,” said Head Coach Jill Harris. “We have overcome a lot of obstacles, changes, and uncertainty. I think we came together as a team the last day at districts. I think the girls gave their upmost effort and that was very good to see.”

“Overall the season didn’t turn out exactly how we had hoped, but as a senior I wouldn’t have wanted to play with any different group of girls,” said senior middle hitter Ashley Woodward. “We worked through a lot of things together throughout the season. I love all of them.”

Coach Harris also talked about how she will not be returning next year as the Bulldogs head coach. “I regret to saying this because I think this team has made positive changes, and I think Coach Pam Cyza, Coach Angie Heimstra, and I makeup a pretty solid coaching staff. As a team and a coaching staff—we were pretty solid.”

When asked about how the team will fare next year, Coach Harris added. “I hope the team continues were they left off. I really want them to look within themselves and I want them to look at their character and be a strong, positive role model for other girls. I want them to be confident and successful not only on the volleyball court, but in life. I hope that they take the work ethic they’ve learned and apply that in practice and in games no matter who their next head coach is.”

Senior right side Bailey Gorsuch added. “As long as [next year’s team] can establish leadership and keep their mental game just as tough as their play, they’ll have a great season.”