New Prairie Volleyball competed in back-to-back Semi-State games. Coming up just short both years deflated the Cougars.
After the 2018-19 season where they made it to Semi-State, the Cougars had the highest expectations coming into this season.
“I think that since most of them had played in the semi-state game the previous year, they felt a little more comfortable,” said Head Coach Jordan Staus.
The Cougars fell to the Belmont Braves 1-3 in a hard fought battle by both teams.
The Semi-State game was held at Plymouth High School on November 2.
The Lady Cougars ended the year with a 20-4 record, they swept their way past regionals beating every team 3-0.
“This is my second year at New Prairie so compared to the 2018-2019 team, I think this team has more postseason experience because of our success last year,” Staus added.
The upperclassmen showed great leadership and always pushed the underclassmen and themselves to a different level when they needed it.
“This group was special on and off the court and it is a rough feeling knowing I won’t get to coach some of them again,” Staus stated.
The Cougars returned to Semi-State after being defeated by New Castle the previous year.
“I think they were ready and excited and happy to be given the opportunity to play with each other again,” Staus added.
New Prairie is losing Seniors Logan Forrester, Olivia Swanson, Shaye Tolch and Katie Hancock.
Key returners for the Cougars are junior Elise Swistek and Sophomore Josie Troy. Swistek was named to All-Conference first team and Troy was named to All-Conference second team.
Elise Swistek is also committed to The University of Valparaiso.
“I'm disappointed that we lost because I know that we were capable of doing so much more,” Swistek said.
There is no denying that the Cougars have the ability to compete for a state title next year, as they are bringing a culture of winning back to New Prairie volleyball.
“I always preach to them that nothing is just handed to you,” Staus said.
They have appeared in back to back Semi-State games with just a couple sets away from going to state. The girls are all in and are hungry for a chance at the state title.
“We are so close,” Troy said, “I just want to win and I think we are capable of doing so with the team we have.”
The Cougars ended their season on an eight game win streak before Belmont snapped it and went on to be defeated by the Brownstown Central Braves for the state championship.
“I look up to them, they help me improve my game and encourage me to bring everything I’ve got everyday,” Troy added.
Upperclassmen leadership is a huge plus for the Cougars because it plays a role in times when inexperienced underclassmen struggle in tough atmospheres, just like at Semi-State.
“The upperclassman did a phenomenal job as role models for the younger kids on the team,” Staus stated.
The Cougars future is bright with all of the returners and Cougar volleyball fans should be extremely excited for what they will bring next year.