MANCHESTER — North Laurel capped off its 49th District Volleyball Tournament run with a championship Tuesday, holding off a determined Clay County squad in straight sets to claim the district crown.
The Lady Jaguars (20-16) defeated the Lady Tigers (16-17) by scores of 25-16, 28-26 and 25-23, overcoming two tightly contested sets to secure the championship and carry momentum into the upcoming 13th Region Volleyball Tournament.
North Laurel established control early with a convincing 25-16 victory in the opening set, but Clay County refused to go away quietly.
The Lady Tigers pushed the second set beyond regulation before North Laurel prevailed, 28-26, putting the Lady Jaguars one set away from the championship.
Clay County continued to battle in the third, but North Laurel displayed the resilience that has helped define its season, overcoming a rocky start before pulling out a narrow 25-23 victory to complete the sweep.
North Laurel coach Angela Singleton praised her team’s determination, consistency and willingness to embrace a team-first mentality following the championship performance.
“These girls! Their fight, their grit, their willingness to play team first volleyball is amazing,” she said. “First two sets were great, everyone was doing exactly what we have been working on all season. The third set was rocky to start, but they kept being consistent and playing jaguar volleyball, chipping away and eventually took control. I can’t stay enough positive things about these girls. They have bought in with everything we’ve been doing this season and it’s amazing to watch. I’m so proud of every single one of them. Now on to region. Go Jags.”
