RANGELY | The Rangely High School volleyball team continued its midseason surge this past weekend, hosting North Park on Friday night before traveling to face the Olathe Pirates on Saturday.
The Lady Panthers entered Friday’s matchup on a two-game winning streak after a 3-1 victory over Manila and defended their home court once again, defeating North Park 3-1. Set scores were 26-24, 23-25, 25-18, and 25-18.
Rangely’s balanced play was on full display in the win over the Wildcats. Freshman Teagan Behunin led the charge at the net with 11 kills, while senior Addison Scott and sophomore Natalie Bollinger each added eight, with Bollinger hitting an efficient .222. Sophomore setter Isabella Cox guided the offense with 19 assists and contributed four aces and 21 service points. On defense, Scott tallied a team-high 23 digs, followed closely by sophomore Taylor Fouch with 21. Freshman Makenzie Hill also made her presence felt with two solo blocks, helping the Panthers secure their third straight victory.
The following day, Rangely carried that momentum on the road, outlasting Olathe in a five-set battle to earn a 3-2 win and even their record at 10-10.
Senior Addison Scott once again led the Panthers with 11 kills and 17 digs, while Behunin followed with eight kills and 12 digs. Senior Aubrianna Tapia and freshman Makenzie Hill each added key offensive support with seven and five kills, respectively, with Hill contributing two blocks. Sophomore setters Rylee Kenney and Isabella Cox ran a sharp offense, combining for 30 assists and 10 service aces. On defense, Fouch anchored the back row with 21 digs and 30 serve receptions.
Head coach Angie Hill said she’s proud of how her players are stepping up and working together during this strong stretch of play.
Hill credited the team’s recent four-game win streak to improved trust and communication.
“I have had girls really step up in their role on the team,” she said. “They began to trust that their teammates were going to do their job. Their communication on the court has improved and I believe that has helped tremendously.”
As the regular season winds down, Hill said the team’s focus remains on consistent effort and preparation.
Looking ahead, the Lady Panthers face Plateau Valley on the road Friday, Oct. 24, at 5 p.m., before returning home Saturday, Oct. 25, to host Cedaredge at 1 p.m.
“We are focused on one point at a time and controlling our game,” Hill said. “I am just proud of the girls for not ever giving up and that we have come to the end of the season with wins. Coming out with a winning record will be the end goal—I am confident that the girls can make that happen.”
With confidence growing and chemistry clicking, the Lady Panthers are peaking at the right time. Each match has brought more consistency, energy, and trust, all of which will be key as they close out the regular season. Rangely now looks to keep its momentum rolling as it heads into the final weekend of league play.
Sophomore #10 Rylee Kenney sends a powerful serve over the net. Matt Scoggins PHOTO
