Champions on the court

RSMS’s Alayna Gatlin returns the ball over the net. Robert P. Taylor|Sampson Independent

In a highly anticipated volleyball championship, Midway Middle School took on Roseboro-Salemburg Middle School in a thrilling three-set match. From the first serve, both teams showed energy and determination, with Midway ultimately securing the 3-0 victory. However, the scoreline belied the intensity of the competition, as RSMS fought relentlessly, pushing Midway to bring their best game to the court.

RSMS took the first serve, with Alayna Gatlin sending the ball over the net, hoping to set the tone for her team. However, early miscommunication among Leopards — Marlyn Phillips, Brenna Faircloth, and others — made it tough to keep up with Midway’s coordinated attacks. Soon, Faircloth hit the ball out of bounds, and the momentum quickly shifted in Midway’s favor. As RSMS’s Reagan Jackson, Emerson Hayes, and others struggled to establish rhythm, Midway capitalized on every error.

Midway’s Cate Williams made an early impact, scoring with precision. Emily Sessoms soon followed with a powerful serve that landed just past RSMS’s defense, widening Midway’s lead. The Leopards rallied with a brief comeback as Hayes and Jackson worked together, but the chemistry wasn’t quite there, and Gatlin hit two balls out. Phillips and Aliya Lamb (#21) showed great teamwork, but Midway’s tactical plays and fast-paced hits were difficult to counter.

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