RANGELY | The Panthers volleyball team opened the 2025 season on a high note, hosting a tournament at Rangely High School under the direction of new head coach Angie Hill.
Rangely started the weekend Friday against Hayden, earning a straight-set sweep. The Panthers won 25-20 and 25-22, their fourth consecutive victory over the Tigers. The win gave Rangely a 1-0 start to the season.
“I was so excited to start the season as head coach at home,” Hill said. “I appreciate all the support I have received from friends and family while taking on this position.”
The momentum continued in their second match Friday against De Beque. The Panthers dominated the Dragons, winning 25-11 and 25-19 to close the day with a 2-0 record.
Hill said she saw the team’s chemistry grow throughout the weekend. “They continued to improve each game,” she said. “We talked about positive communication and set goals to work on that. I believe it all starts with leadership and our captain, Kaelyn Geer, is great at leading her team by always having a positive attitude that trickles down to her teammates. The chemistry these girls have I think will only continue to grow as the season goes on.”
On Saturday morning, Rangely faced Grand Valley and again earned a sweep. The Panthers won 25-23 and 25-15, marking their seventh consecutive win over the Cardinals and improving their season record to 3-0.
“All of the team did so well,” Hill said of her players. “I was super happy with how they all played. Every one of them did great things.”
The Panthers closed the tournament against Plateau Valley, falling in straight sets 25-17 and 25-19. Despite the loss, Hill said her team battled and showed grit.
“Plateau Valley has some big hitters that got through our defense,” she said. “Something we took from that game is that we didn’t give up and our girls kept fighting through it. I was so proud of how well the girls played together as a team and celebrated each other’s success. We have so much talent in this group and they really showed that this weekend.”
Rangely finished its home tournament with a 3-1 overall record. Hill pointed to serving as an early strength but said the Panthers will continue to improve in serve receive.
This Saturday, the Panthers will host Grand Valley once again in a quick rematch. Hill said her team will be ready.
“With this upcoming game, we know what our opponent is capable of and we can have a game plan going in,” she said. “I want the girls to go in knowing they can take care of business and play our game. I want to have more consistent passing so that we can terminate plays faster.”
With three convincing wins already under their belts and valuable lessons taken from their first loss, the Panthers enter the rematch against Grand Valley looking to keep momentum on their side and continue building toward a strong season. Good luck to the Panthers this weekend — and go Panthers.
By JARED HENDERSON |
good job Jered !!!!