North Battles Hard in First Road Game Against Cross Timbers
B TEAM
12-25, 25-18,14-16
The North Cougars hit the road for their first away matchup of the season, taking on Cross Timbers in a thrilling three-set battle. The Cougars started off a little slow, dropping the opening set 25–12 as Cross Timbers controlled the pace early on. But North wasn’t going down without a fight. In the second set, the Cougars regrouped and came out strong, delivering big serves and aggressive play to even the match with a 25–18 win. That momentum carried into the deciding third set, which turned into a nail-biting back-and-forth showdown. In the end, North came up just short, falling 16–14 in a heartbreaker. Several players shined in the matchup. Mila Obidzinski made her presence felt from the service line, tallying 8 points. Holiday Lora brought unmatched energy and delivered powerful hits throughout the night. Angelica Bennet, playing her very first game on the B team, impressed with her timing at the net and some big blocks. Still, the spotlight belonged to Olivia Moore, who earned Player of the Game honors. Moore was a constant force for the Cougars, showcasing incredible serve-receive skills, clutch hitting, and relentless hustle. Her all-around effort kept North in the fight and nearly pushed them over the top. Although the final score didn’t swing their way, the Cougars showed grit, determination, and plenty of promise moving forward this season.
A TEAM
16-25, 19-25
The Wolves, last year’s first-place district seed, proved to be the toughest opponent the A team has faced this season, pushing the Cougars to elevate their gameplay. pushing the Cougars' gameplay to a new level. Although North fell short on the scoreboard, their performance was impressive across the board. In the first set, the Cougars fell short 16-25. The second set saw multiple lead changes between both teams, with the final score ending 19-25. Peyton Dougher, libero, stood out with her exceptional serve receive and defense. Brielle Wonby, Defensive Specialist, and Sydney Stuchal, pin hitter, both elevated their play by transitioning to six-rotation players in the second set. Brylee Felix, outside hitter, setter, and team captain, was a consistent force on offense, delivering solid swings and steady serve receive. Player of the Game honors went to outside hitter, setter, and team captain, Annabelle Ross. Annabelle showcased her versatility with multiple kills from the outside, fluid movement on both offense and defense, and unmatched energy that sparked the team with every point she scored.
C TEAM
25-17, 25-22
The North Cougars C team hit the court determined and came away with a sweep in their first road match of the season against Cross Timbers. The Cougars set the tone early, taking the first set 25–17 behind sharp serving and strong all-around play. They carried that momentum into the second set, holding off a late Cross Timbers push to close it out 25–22 and earn the 2–0 victory. Several Cougars stood out in the win. Madeline Berumen dominated from the service line, racking up an impressive 13 points. Zara Abbas and Sterling Cook showed their versatility and endurance, playing all the way around and contributing on both offense and defense. Meanwhile, Rebecca VanSickle and Ava Hundley brought nonstop energy and delivered clutch serves that kept the Cougars rolling. The night’s Player of the Game was Kate McGrath, whose unbelievable passing anchored the team and gave North the edge in every rally. Her consistency and hustle helped keep the Cougars in control from start to finish. With this win, the C team showed that they are a force to be reckoned with and improve to 2-0 for the season.
7th Grade vs Cross Timbers MS
Despite a gritty performance that saw the team battle back in all three sets, North fell to Cross Timbers in a 1-2 (22-25, 25-19, 12-15) on Thursday evening. The Cougars showed incredible resilience, but ultimately couldn't overcome the Wolves’ potent offense and a series of late-set errors, marking their first away loss of the season.
Although the final result was a sweep, the match felt much closer, with both teams exchanging momentum throughout the night. North fought back hard after each set, demonstrating their determination and never backing down. A few communication lapses and critical errors at key moments allowed the Wolves to edge out the win, but the Cougars' effort and team spirit were evident from start to finish.
This week’s Player of the Game was a standout presence on the court, contributing 6 crucial points with powerful serves at a pivotal moment in the match. Her performance was the turning point that helped secure the Cougars' win in the second set. Lilly Jarmon’s ability to remain calm and focused under pressure was key to keeping the team in the game. Congratulations, Lilly Jarmon!
Player of the Week honors go to Samira Augustine, whose growth and determination continue to impress each week. Samira has shown remarkable progress, always eager to learn and improve. Her dedication to developing her skills and her willingness to ask questions has not only made her a better player but has also been a great example for her teammates. Samira’s positive attitude and work ethic are exactly what the team needs moving forward. Congratulations, Samira!
The 7th grade B team faced a tough challenge this week, falling in two sets. The first set proved difficult, as the team struggled to find their rhythm and get into a consistent groove. Despite the slow start, the players continued to fight and stayed focused, determined to improve.
That determination showed in the second set, where B team came out with more energy and played noticeably better. Their communication improved, and they began to settle into their rotations and work together more effectively. Although they ultimately came up short, the effort and improvement were clear.
This week’s Player of the Game was Lily Bordelon who led the way with several strong aces that gave the team much-needed momentum. Her consistent serving kept the team in the game and helped spark some key rallies.
This week’s Player of the Week goes to Isabella Johnson, who stepped up in a big way by playing a position she doesn’t usually play. Isabella also asks questions and wants to learn ways she can help improve her game. Her willingness to do whatever the team needs shows great leadership and a true team-first mindset.
The 7th grade C volleyball team faced off against a strong Cross Timbers squad this week in a hard-fought, three-set match. Although North came up short in the end, the game was a great display of effort, resilience, and team spirit. Cross Timbers came out with intensity in the first set, catching North off guard and taking an early lead. Despite some solid plays, North couldn’t quite close the gap, and Cross Timbers secured the first set.
Refusing to back down, North bounced back in the second set with renewed focus and energy. The team came together with strong communication, smart plays, and consistent serves, dominating the set and winning by an impressive 9-point margin.
With the match tied 1–1, the third set was set up for an exciting finish, as both teams fought hard. In the end, Cross Timbers managed to take the final set, sealing the match win. Even in defeat, the C team showed growth, heart, and a never-give-up attitude.
This week’s Player of the Game honors go to Brooklyn Vaughan for her outstanding performance at the service line. Her consistent serves kept the momentum in North’s favor and played a key role in the team’s success during the second set. Brooklyn’s focus and confidence under pressure helped spark several scoring runs, giving her team the boost they needed. Her effort, energy, and leadership on the court made a big impact and set a great example for her teammates. Great job, Brooklyn!
This week’s Player of the Week goes to Bao Tran! Bao has stood out with her excellent passing that helps set up plays for her teammates. In addition to her strong defensive skills, she has put in the work to improve her serving, showing noticeable progress and determination. Bao is always looking for ways to grow as a player—whether it’s through extra effort in practice or staying coachable during games. Her hard work, positive attitude, and commitment to improvement make her a valuable part of the team. Way to go, Bao!
