By Kayley Bruener
The Pendleton County Ladycats volleyball team had plenty to celebrate last week, earning their first victory of the season in dramatic fashion before facing a tough test against one of the region’s perennial powers.
On September 2, the Ladycats hosted the Robertson County Lady Devils in their first district matchup of the season. The night turned into a battle, as the two teams traded momentum through five sets. In the end, Pendleton County prevailed, capturing the win and notching their first victory of the year. Senior Gracie Cotterman powered the offense with 17 kills, while junior Pypr McCloud added 10 kills. Defensively, senior Isabella Roberts set the tone with a team-high 20 digs. Junior Kaylee Loomis and eighth grader Hadley Spaulding also made big contributions in the back row, each recording 15 digs. At the net, junior Kylie Dunn tallied five blocks and freshman Kenzi Mastin chipped in with six blocks, giving the Ladycats the edge in key moments.
The following night, September 3, Pendleton County returned to their home court to face the Bishop Brossart Lady Mustangs. Despite a strong defensive effort, the Ladycats fell in straight sets. Loomis led the defense with an impressive 19 digs, while Dunn continued her solid net play, recording three blocks.
Looking ahead, the Ladycats will continue district play on September 8, when they host Nicholas County at 7:30 p.m. They will then hit the road for back-to-back matches, traveling to Scott High School on September 10, and Bracken County High School on September 11.