Wednesday, December 21, 2005

Last of the Post Season Honors

The last of the 2005 post season awards were announced recently by the Texas Sports Writers Association and Magnolia Lady Bulldog OH Lauren Michael was awarded Honorable Mention for her play during the 2005 5A season. This was Lauren's second consecutive selection with the Texas Sports Writers Association and interestingly enough - Lauren and OH Candice Davis from Clear Creek were the only two Class 5A selections in the entire Houston area!! You've probably read the earlier post with the announcement from the Texas Girl Coaches Association naming Heather Bowden, Mary Chadwick and Carly Springer to the 2005 TGCA All State All Academic team and a little later, the TGCA announced Lauren Michael as a member of the 2005 TGCA All State All Star Team as an alternate.

(l to r: Carly Springer, Heather Bowden, Lauren Michael and Mary Chadwick.)
Since that announcement, the Houston Chronicle released their selections for the 2005 All-Greater Houston Volleyball teams and Lauren was selected for their Third team. Congratulations, Lauren and to the Magnolia Lady Bulldogs and their fans, for a great season and for putting Magnolia on the Texas "Volleyball Map". There will undoubtedly be a lot more awards and recognition and coming the future Lady Bulldogs' way in the years to come!!

Lauren Michael

2005 Texas Sports Writers Assoc All-State Team

2005 Texas Girls Coaches Assoc All State All Star

2005 All-Greater Houston Third Team

GO LADY BULLDOGS !!! BULLDOG PRIDE !!!

Monday, December 05, 2005

Congratulations to 3 LADY BULLDOGS !!

The announcement from the Texas Girls Coaches Association has just been made and a well deserved congratulations is in order for three of our most outstanding Magnolia Lady Bulldogs seniors. Heather Bowden, Mary Chadwick and Heather Bowden have been selected to the TGCA 2005-2006 Volleyball Academic 5A All State Team !!! Wow, great job ladies! Truly impressive - these 3 ladies worked hard on the court and in the classroom and all that hard work and sacrifice has really paid off!




Heather Bowden

2005-2006 Academic All State



Mary Chadwick

2005-2006 Academic All State




Carly Springer

2005-2006 Academic All State





Here are the Nomination Guidelines for Academic All-State:

1. Academic All State athletes MUST BE GRADUATING SENIORS.

2. Must have an overall GPA average of 94 for grades 9-11. A candidate would not be submitted for a nomination if the athlete does not meet this GPA requirement.

3. Must be a varsity participant in good standing and be of good moral character.


CONGRATULATIONS LADIES, MAGNOLIA IS PROUD OF YOU!!!


Monday, November 21, 2005

Lady Bulldogs Earn Awards


The 2005 Magnolia Lady Bulldogs brought home a truckload of awards for their stellar play this season and we're sure it's just the beginning of many more to come! There may be some additions to the list below as more awards will be released in the next several weeks, but here's some awards from the MHS banquet held on Wednesday, November 16th (in alphabetical order):

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

VARSITY




Alicia Shaffer

Sophomore / OH, All Around

2005 All District 17-5A 1st Team
2005 District 17-5A All Academic Team
2005 All Montgomery County 1st Team
2005 Magnolia High School Defensive Player of the Year
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++




Caitlin Holland

Junior / Setter

2005 All District 17-5A Honorable Mention
2005 District 17-5A All Academic Team
2005 All Montgomery County 1st Team
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++




Hannah Fort

Sophomore / Middle

2005 All District 17-5A 1st Team
2005 District 17-5A All Academic Team
2005 All Montgomery County Newcomer of the Year
2005 Magnolia High School Rookie of the Year
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++




Heather Bowden

Senior / OH Right Side

2005 All District 17-5A Honorable Mention
2005 District 17-5A All Academic Team
2005 All Montgomery County Honorable Mention
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++




Kelli Stewart
Freshman Outside/Middle

2005 District 17-5A All Academic Team
2005 All Montgomery County Honorable Mention
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++




Lauren Michael
Senior / OH, All Around (SFA)

2005 Texas Sports Writers Association All-State Team nominee
2005 Texas Girls Coaches Association All State Team nominee
2005 All District 17-5A 1st Team
2005 District 17-5A Hitter of the Year
2005 District 17-5A All Academic Team
2005 All Montgomery County Most Valuable Player
2005 All Montgomery County 1st Team
2005 Magnolia High School Most Valuable Player
2005 Spring Branch Invitational All Tournament Team
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++




Mary Chadwick
Senior / Setter

2005 All District 17-5A 1st Team
2005 District 17-5A All Academic Team
2005 All Montgomery County Setter of the Year
2005 All Montgomery County 1st Team
2005 Magnolia High School Fighting Heart Award
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++




Michele Williams
Sophomore, Middle/Outside

2005 Texas Girls Coaches Association All State Team nominee
2005 Texas Sports Writers Association All State Team nominee
2005 All District 17-5A 1st Team
2005 District 17-5A All-Academic Team
2005 All Montgomery County
2005 All Montgomery County Offensive Player of the Year
2005 Magnolia High School Offensive Player of the Year
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


2005 DISTRICT 17-5A ALL ACADEMIC TEAM

Ashley Meeks, Jr / DS
Carly Springer, Sr / DS

Jamie Kaleh, Soph /OH
Samantha Lange, Jr / OHR / Setter

(not pictured) K'la Wise
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


JUNIOR VARSITY




ALL ACADEMIC

Nikki Bostick, Hannah Davies, Meagan Drew, Elizabeth Gantze, Mandy Gray, Ashley Howe, Chelsea Jackson, Katie Kreft, Lynnsay Manning, Breane Matula, Cecily Meeks, Kati Michael, Sydney O’Neal, Jamie Paulson, Nadette Peters, Brittany Wheaton

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL LADIES!!!



Comment:....BD2 said:...9:42 AM
"The blog web site was a tremendous success this season. Talk about starting up a tradition! My mother just e-mailed me and said she has been checking the blog religiously the past 4 days hoping for an update from the banquet on her granddaughter. She e-mailed me immediately after it was updated! Also, I've got my long-lost brother e-mailing more and more these days from Montana. The blog brought us closer together after minimal contact the past 10+ years. Awesome! Many, many, many thanks. God Bless."






Saturday, November 19, 2005

State Finals for Texas

Its official! Congratulations to Arlington Martin (5A), New Braunsfels (4A), and Bellville (3A) and all of the five defending state champions who advanced back to Saturday's finals for 2005. What an exciting year for ladies' volleyball in the state of Texas!!

++++++++++++++++RESULTS+++++++++++++++++++

In a match that featured massive momentum swings, bursts of raw power, deceptive setting and absolutely spectacular defensive digs, Arlington Martin fought off a furious Westlake challenge to claim the 5A state title 25-20, 25-18, 16-25, 21-25, 17-15.

Austin Westlake vs Arlington Martin 5A Finals 11/19/05

Class 5A
SA Reagan vs. Austin Westlake 11/18/05
Westlake overpowers Reagan:
Lauren Dickson and Mary Catherine Aune put on a hitting display in the 5A semifinals to lead Westlake over San Antonio Reagan 25-18, 23-25, 27-25, 25-23 and into the 5A finals.

Arlington Martin vs. Deer Park 11/18/05
Martin blast Deer Park:
Arlington Martin's big, deep and athletic front line threw up a wall of blocks and the Warriors steamrolled Deer Park 25-10, 25-18, 25-14 for a spot against Westlake in Saturday's 5A finals.



Class 5A 11/11/05
Arlington Martin, Region 1

Austin Westlake, Region 2
Houston Deer Park, Region 3
San Antonio Reagan, Region 4

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


New Braunfels takes down Hebron in 4A finals. New Braunfels setter Rachel Brown used all her many powerful weapons as the Unicorns dethroned defending champion Hebron in an exhausting, back-and-forth 23-25, 25-20, 25-23, 22-25, 15-7 battle to claim the 4A state title.The Unicorns' Amy Huddleston was named state tournament MVP.

Lewisville Hebron vs New Braunsfels 4A Finals 11/19/05


Class 4A
Lewisville Hebron sweeps Dumas: 11/18/05
It was the Shannon Walker and Susie Lesher show as Hebron overpowered Dumas in the 4A semifinals 25-8, 25-17, 25-20.


Lacy Redwine, Amy Huddleston, Chelsea Fowler and Taylor Jonas led the New Braunfels Unicorns to a 25-22, 25-22, 25-17 sweep of Klein Oak in Thursday night's semifinal match. The loss overshadowed an outstanding performance by Klein Oak senior Bridget Laplante.



Class 4A 11/11/05
Dumas
Lewisville Hebron
Klein Oak
New Braunfels

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Bellville outguns Monahans for 3A title. In a wild west shootout featuring two of the state's best gunslingers, Bellville ultimately had more weapons than Monahans and took the 3A title away from the defending champions 25-23, 19-25, 22-25, 25-23, 15-11. Kaitlin Inglish and Brittany Hughes, two of the state's most explosive players, lived up to their billing but it was little sophomore Precious Sanders that provided the added offense that Bellville needed to claim the title. Inglish was named MVP.

Monahans vs Bellville 3A Finals 11/19/05


Class 3A
Monahans rocks Luling: 11/18/05
Brittany Hughes rocked Luling and Strahan Coliseum with kill after thunderous kill Friday afternoon and the Lady Loboes rolled into the 3A finals with a 25-18, 25-17, 25-15 semifinal sweep of the Eagles.


Bellville fights off Pleasant Grove: 11/18/05
Bellville turned to Kaitlin Inglish down the stretch and the 6-foot senior delivered to lead Bellville back from a 2-1 game deficit and into the 3A state finals with a comeback 3-2 (15-11) win over Texarkana Pleasant Grove. Bellville trailed 11-9 in game five but an Inglish kills, two Grove errors, a dump by Kalya Schmidt and a vicious smash by Inglish capped a 6-0 Bellville run for the match. Bellville will face Monahans in the 3A finals.


Class 3A 11/11/05
Monahans
Texarkana Pleasant Grove
Bellville
Luling

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Friday, November 18, 2005

2005 MHS Lady Bulldog Banquet a Great Success




MHS Lady Bulldog Volleyball
Team Banquet

Thanks to all, for a wonderful evening of fun, good food, and celebration as we acknowledged the achievements of the 2005 Magnolia High School Lady Bulldogs Volleyball program. A special thanks needs to go out to Coach J and the entire coaching staff and their families, the MHS Booster Club, Rusty 'Kibbles' Williams, and to ALL others for their hard work in making such a memorable night for the players, parents, and for the fans!

Send your banquet photos for posting!
GO LADY BULLDOGS !!!

Sunday, November 13, 2005

The Final 4 in the Texas State Finals





Class 5A

Arlington Martin, Region 1
Austin Westlake, Region 2
Houston Deer Park, Region 3
San Antonio Reagan, Region 4

....... Pairing for the State Tournament: Pairings were released around 9:00 a.m. on Sunday. Teams were placed in their bracket according to their win/loss record. The two best records were placed in opposite halves and the third best record was placed up or down as determined by a coin flip. The UIL staff called the coaches on Sunday morning with pairings and tournament information. Note: Deer Park beat San Antonio Reagan and Martin in the Labor Day Tournament earlier this season. Looks like the pairings in San Marcos, will be:
Friday November 18th
5 pm
SA Reagan (37-3) vs. Austin Westlake (35-8)
7 pm
Arlington Martin (36-7) vs. Deer Park (36-8)
Class 4A
Dumas,
Lewisville Hebron,
Klein Oak,
New Braunfels

Class 3A
Monahans,
Texarkana Pleasant Grove,
Bellville,
Luling

Friday, November 11, 2005

The Winding Road to the 5A State Finals



And so the path to the 5A State Finals continues for the remaining 8 teams left in the Semi-finals. Good luck to all!!

Texas 5A Regional Semi Finals Friday 11/11

Texas 5A Semi-Finals Saturday 11/12


Region1
Amarillo vs Plano
Abilene vs Martin

Results 11/11:
Plano defeats Amarillo in 5
Martin defeats Abilene in 3
Plano vs Martin 11/12/05
Region 2
Carrolton vs Hays
Richardson Pearce vs Westlake
Results 11/11:
Hays defeats Carrolton
Westlake defeats Richardson Pearce
Hays vs Westlake 11/12/105
Region 3
Katy vs Clear Creek
Memorial vs Deer Park
Results 11/11:
Deer Park defeats Memorial in 3...
Clear Creek defeats Katy in 3...
Deer Park vs Clear Creek 11/12/05
Deer Park wins: (25-17, 24-26, 25-21, 25-22)
Region 4
Regan vs Harlingen
SouthChurchill vs McAllen
Results 11/11:
Reagan defeats Harlingen
Churchill defeats McAllen
Reagan vs Churchill 11/12/05

Wednesday, November 09, 2005

Notes...on state 5A playoffs!!!


Memorial's win over Magnolia in 4 was a great match. For those who miss watching the Lady Bulldogs play and are having Bulldog withdrawls - these notes may help soften the melancholy and put the season into perspective. Folks, the Lady Bulldogs were 'right in there'! It's amazing how close they really were to mixing it up and going to the 'Big Dance'. But first, let's trail the results of our foes: "Hats off" to the Memorial Lady Mustangs...They have taken off on a "tear" using the momentum of their win against the Lady Bulldogs to already be in the top 16 in the 5A state playoffs!! Every DAWG will have it's day and that day is coming for Magnolia. The Lady Bulldogs have some great youngsters coming along and will be a powerhouse in a year or so!
From the first round onward, the path to the state 5A finals has been treacherous for the favored teams; rewarding for the underdogs; and exciting for ALL the fans in Region III. Here's a roundup of our district and regional playoffs (and a few other Magnolia opponents worth tracking):


In the earlier match when the Lady Bulldogs and Lady Mustangs faced off: the Langham Creek Lady Lobos outplayed and rolled over Nimitz in 3.


Since that first round of the playoffs in Texas 5A Region III: the list of second-round casualties unfortunately took it's toll: (favored) Kingwood -- was upset by Clear Brook; (favored) Stratford -- lost to Katy; (favored) Cinco Ranch -- lost to Memorial; and (favored) Cy-Fair -- lost to Clements...


Memorial beat Cinco Ranch in 4 with great blocking and tough serves! Carrie and Katie played well for Cinco and both of have very bright futures, but were unable to contain Sidney for Memorial who lead the team with 17 kills. Solid blocking by Sydney Ack on the rightside and great defense did it for them as it did for them against us.


Memorial then was set to play Clements who had just swept Cy-Fair in 3 games.. Clements played really well and reportedly had many great digs and really played great overall as a team. There can't be any complaints about Cy-Fair's season (31-5) - they beat some good teams along the way, won a couple of tournaments, sending four girls off to play in college (possibly five), made lots of new friends and believers through the year. They had a heck of a ride and was well worth the price. Great job District 17-5A Champs: Cy-Fair they've got plenty to be proud of.

Meanwhile our district 17-5A second place team: Langham Creek hit their wall. The Dulles Lady Vikings took care of things and rolled over Langham Creek in 4. I've been told Brittany Collins had a great game. Langham Creek never gave up and fought to the end but were not strong enough to take on the favored Lady Vikings. That was the end of our district's (17-5A) representation in the playoff race...


When the bracket for 5A Region III was completed, how many people envisioned the following quarterfinals on 11/8 ??:
Dulles vs. Katy
Clear Creek vs. Clear Brook
Memorial vs. Clements
Deer Park vs. Clear Lake
But things were just starting to take off......Memorial over Clements in 4... *Side Note - Memorial's Stewart had 23 kills while Clements' Heather Kisner had 16 kills... Lauren Johnson again played great in the middle for Memorial...Coach Gammill ought to be super proud of her girls and to be in the Sweet 16 in the state and Final Four in Region III...is an awesome achievement after being denied the past 5 years.
Katy over favored Dulles in 4 ....Clear Creek over Clear Brook in 5...Hays over The Woodlands in 3 (25-23, 25-10, 25-21). The Woodlands had beaten the number 1 ranked team in the state and favored to win it all (Bowie)....Westlake over Cedar Park (who swept Huntsville) in 5.

Also congrats to the Deer Park Lady Deer. They beat Clear Lake in 4 games (25-21, 25-14, 22-25, 25-19). Kudos to setter Jackie Melinder who was all over the floor and a great job by the bench to come in and fill when called upon. Good match shaping up Friday against Memorial!
REMINDER !!!
THE 2005 MAGNOLIA LADY BULLDOGS BANQUET IS SCHEDULED FOR WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16TH.
WE WILL PASS ON TIME AND PLACE AS SOON AS WE GET IT. SEE YOU THERE!
Comment: mat4 said... 1:36 PM
Wow! Thanks for the updates. Yes, I am one of those definitely going through a withdrawal. If it were not for club, I would really be in bad shape! A big thanks again to both of you guys for all the time and effort you have put into this site. You're great!

Wednesday, November 02, 2005

Final District 17-5A Stats








17-5A DISTRICT STATS week thru 10/25

BLOCK SOLO BS/GAM BS GAMES

Langston, Olivia TOMBALL 0.836 46 55
Freidrichs, Elaine TOMBALL 0.769 10 13
Cabrera, Maria CY-SPRINGS 0.529 27 51
Ogwumike, Nneka CY-FAIR 0.500 27 54
Gibbs, Lauren LANGHAM CREEK 0.472 25 53
Reno, Sarah TOMBALL 0.458 27 59
Nelson, Jennifer CY-SPRINGS 0.436 24 55
Kuhner, Lauren CY-CREEK 0.364 20 55
Meyer, Ali CY-FALLS 0.352 19 54
Fort, Hannah MAGNOLIA 0.288 15 52
Schmitt, Christy LANGHAM CREEK 0.283 15 53
Ninos, Alexis CY-FAIR 0.275 14 51
Novosad, Julia CY-FALLS 0.241 13 54
Williams, Michele MAGNOLIA 0.240 12 50
Biega, Mollie CY-CREEK 0.222 12 54

BLOCK ASST. BA/GAME BA GAMES

Kuhner, Lauren CY-CREEK 1.091 60 55
Ninos, Alexis CY-FAIR 0.980 50 51
Williams, Michele MAGNOLIA 0.780 39 50
Eidson, Laura JERSEY VILLAGE 0.736 39 53
Biega, Mollie CY-CREEK 0.685 37 54
Ogwumike, Nneka CY-FAIR 0.611 33 54
Nesloney, Megan JERSEY VILLAGE 0.569 29 51
Hunsicker, Lauren CY-FAIR 0.542 26 48
McClean, Jennifer CY-FAIR 0.542 26 48
Selvius, Stephanie CY-CREEK 0.528 19 36
Schmitt, Christy LANGHAM CREEK 0.509 27 53
Fort, Hannah MAGNOLIA 0.442 23 52
Morse, Lily CY-CREEK 0.440 22 50
Gibbs, Lauren LANGHAM CREEK 0.434 23 53
Gilbert, Jessica CY-FAIR 0.407 22 54
Novosad, Julia CY-FALLS 0.407 22 54

ASST ASST/GAME ASST. GAMES

McCorquodale, Caleigh CY-FAIR 9.170 486 53
Coon, Casie CY-FALLS 8.278 447 54
Matteson, Kristin LANGHAM CREEK 7.868 417 53
Jennett, Jessica JERSEY VILLAGE 7.774 412 53
Mumma, Liz CY-CREEK 6.510 319 49
Chadwick, Mary MAGNOLIA 5.942 309 52
Wallace, Cheryl TOMBALL 5.847 345 59
Lyons, Ashley CY-RIDGE 5.364 295 55
Holland, Caitlin MAGNOLIA 4.519 235 52
Amos, Erika CY-SPRINGS 3.073 169 55
Harlan, Kendall CY-CREEK 3.065 95 31
Loving, Kym CY-SPRINGS 2.927 161 55
King, Hillary TOMBALL 2.791 120 43
Sims, Stephanie CY-CREEK 1.724 50 29
Gilbert, Jessica CY-FAIR 1.500 81 54

DIGS DIGS/G DIG GAMES
Krauss, Ava CY-RIDGE 5.636 310 55
Williamson, Cheryl CY-FALLS 5.130 277 54
Templett, Kellie CY-SPRINGS 4.345 239 55
McCorquodale, Breann CY-FAIR 4.256 183 43
Pitzenberger,Sadie TOMBALL 3.981 207 52
Hunsicker, Lauren CY-FAIR 3.917 188 48
McClean, Jennifer CY-FAIR 3.917 188 48
Morse, Lily CY-CREEK 3.900 195 50
Shaffer, Alicia MAGNOLIA 3.827 199 52
Michael, Lauren MAGNOLIA 3.480 174 50
Lowdermilk, Morgan TOMBALL 3.415 181 53
Coon, Casie CY-FALLS 3.315 179 54
Hengst, Rachel JERSEY VILLAGE 3.275 167 51
Hill, Rebekah CY-RIDGE 3.120 156 50
Morey, Taryn JERSEY VILLAGE 3.078 157 51

KILLS KILL/G KILLS EFF % GAMES

Michael, Lauren MAGNOLIA 3.780 189 0.318 50
Williams, Michele MAGNOLIA 3.540 177 0.426 50
Gavenas, Christina JERSEY VILLAGE 3.340 177 0.340 53
Gibbs, Lauren LANGHAM CREEK 3.302 175 0.572 53
Ogwumike, Nneka CY-FAIR 2.926 158 0.374 54
Kuehler, Megan LANGHAM CREEK 2.811 149 0.251 53
Kuhner, Lauren CY-CREEK 2.800 154 0.347 55
Hunsicker, Lauren CY-FAIR 2.750 132 0.226 48
McClean, Jennifer CY-FAIR 2.750 132 0.226 48
Morse, Lily CY-CREEK 2.740 137 0.298 50
Schmitt, Christy LANGHAM CREEK 2.604 138 0.414 53
Lindsey, Michelle CY-FALLS 2.444 132 0.160 54
Meyer, Ali CY-FALLS 2.222 120 0.220 54
Gilbert, Jessica CY-FAIR 2.130 115 0.317 54
Summerer, Karli CY-CREEK 2.104 101 0.171 48

ACES ACES/GAME ACES GAMES

Matteson, Kristin LANGHAM CREEK 0.755 40 53
Hunsicker, Lauren CY-FAIR 0.708 34 48
McClean, Jennifer CY-FAIR 0.708 34 48
McCorquodale, Breann CY-FAIR 0.628 27 43
Shaffer, Alicia MAGNOLIA 0.596 31 52
Kuehler, Megan LANGHAM CREEK 0.585 31 53
Holland, Caitlin MAGNOLIA 0.538 28 52
Gilbert, Jessica CY-FAIR 0.537 29 54
Coon, Casie CY-FALLS 0.537 29 54
Simmons, Brandi JERSEY VILLAGE 0.531 26 49
Syzdek, Kelley LANGHAM CREEK 0.528 28 53
Schmitt, Christy LANGHAM CREEK 0.509 27 53
Kiel, Aly LANGHAM CREEK 0.509 27 53
Chadwick, Mary MAGNOLIA 0.500 26 52
Shoup, Chelsea CY-SPRINGS 0.455 20 44

Tuesday, November 01, 2005

Lady Bulldogs Corralled by Lady Mustangs

It took four tough games and the Lady Bulldogs put on a spirited fight, but in the end -maybe it was not meant to be. After Game #2, Memorial may have wondered if it was their time, as well. After all, the Lady Mustangs have had their own 'baggage' to shed - being the first time in 5 years that they've advanced into the second round of the playoffs. Memorial was focused, determined and wanted it in a bad way and went out and earned their playoff win by playing solidly throughout the match. The 'Stangs played well digging the Dawgs' attacks, and consistently mounting a steady (but not necessarily 'over-powering') offense. The Lady Bulldogs on the other hand, had a harder time executing and controlling the ball tonight and despite doing good things also, could not advance playing less than perfect "Defense".


Senior Lauren Michael playing in her final match as a Lady Bulldog.


The Magnolia scores of the four games went like this: (18-25, 25-22, 18-25 and 19-25). The number of momentum and lead swings in this match were not as frequent as in other matches this season. Sidney Stewart had 17 Kills for Memorial and Magnolia's Lauren Michael finished with 13 Kills for the evening. In Game #1, the Memorial Lady Mustangs controlled the game from beginning to end. They maintained a 4 point spread from an early Lauren Michael kill at 3-7; Hannah Fort kill at 5-9; Jamie Kaleh kills at 7-11 and 9-14 - until Michelle Williams tightened it up a bit with 2 kills (one at 11-15 and another at 14-16). Memorial again asserted themselves and with the help of several errors by Magnolia, they outscored the Lady Bulldogs 9-4 to bolt to a 25-18 finish.

Michele Williams one step ahead of Memorial's

setter by blocking the backhanded attack.


In Game #2, the Lady Bulldogs came out of the gate and controlled this game from start-to-finish. Magnolia jumped on top with a Michele 'Boom Boom' Williams kill at 2-1; and with a couple of Hannah Fort kills and a Heather Bowden kill shot later; throw-in a Williams' block point at 10-8; Kelli Stewart dink at 11-10; a couple more Lauren Michael kills at 12 and 13-11; and finally, a few errors by the Lady Mustangs had them calling for a time out at 16-11. When the whistle blew for play to resume, Alicia Shaffer had a kill at 17-12, Hannah Fort again at 18-13 with the game seemingly "in hand" when suddenly, the Mustangs came galloping back to tie the game at 21-21. A couple of great blocks put the Lady Bulldogs up at 23-21. Kelli Stewart made it 24-22 with a great kill, and an error later - a good 25-22 victory was in the books for the Bulldogs: and more importantly, this comeback-game pumped some confidence into the players and it was beginning to look like: "maybe it was going to be the DAWGS night".

That ball is going "nowhere" after hitting the blocking

wall of Kelli Stewart and Michele Williams (to her left).



Game #3: The 2 teams seemed to reverse roles as Memorial came out from the break a little more aggressive and less 'error-prone' and the Lady Bulldogs were suddenly on their back paws. Memorial controlled the game early, though Michele Williams (dink at 2-4 and block at 9-9) and Hannah Fort (great Hannah Glide kill at 3-6 and hit at 8-9) kept the Dawgs in the hunt. A great volley put Magnolia on top at 10-9 and then a big, booming 'Happy Birthday' kill by Jamie Kaleh put the Dawgs in charge at 11-9. Just when it looked like "things were going our way", one of the few, dramatic, momentum-swings (for both teams on this night) unexpectantly reared it's ugly head, and the Lady Mustangs herded the mistake-prone Lady Bulldogs, outscoring them 16-7 to finish their 'comeback game' at 25-18.




Lady Bulldog Junior setter Caitlin Holland setting 'em up!

Game #4....and the band played on...very similar to Game #3 with Michele Williams, Kelli Stewart and Hannah Fort keeping the Lady Bulldogs close at 8-9. Again, the patient Lady Mustangs kept putting the ball in Magnolia's court and the Lady Bulldogs didn't fare very well defensively. The 'Stangs kept a healthy lead of at least 4 points and began to bang the ball a little harder as the Lady Dawgs couldn't effectively mount a counter-attack. Magnolia falls 19-25.
Just like the Discovery Channel and the harsh Laws of Nature state: "The Strong Survive"...
Records:
Magnolia 24-12; Memorial 26-11
Leaders:
Magnolia, Lauren Michael 13 kills, 10 digs; Michele Williams 12 kills, 6 digs, 6 blocks; Hannah Fort 8 kills, 7 digs; Kelli Stewart 5 kills; Jamie Kaleh 5 kills, 7 digs; Caitlin Holland 9 digs, 20 assists;
Memorial, Sidney Stewart 17 kills, 8 digs, 4 aces; Lauren Buchman 11 kills, 11 digs

Memorial was the victor tonight and they simply played better but Magnolia has nothing to be ashamed of. The fans who traveled to the game showed their appreciation and are all behind the ladies and the volleyball program has a good solid foundation in place. The Lady Bulldogs should take a little time to look back at what they've 'built' this season and be proud of their accomplishments and not be too disappointed with falling short in this playoff match...Think of it this way - by the time these state playoffs are finished - only 1 team will be going home with smiles on their faces!

The 2005 Magnolia Lady Bulldogs returned to Don Coleman Colliseum.


CONGRATULATIONS, LADY BULLDOGS!!!

Comment: mat4 said... 12:37 PM
Ladies, I think you still did a fine job overall this season. You kept the fans sitting on the edge of seats not knowing what to expect with each play. You all did a great job. I would like to commend the four seniors that will be moving on. You were awesome, professional and a role model for those under you. Coaches, what can I say? You're awesome! You put in a lot of hard work and look at the outcome. I can't wait for next season to start. Best of Luck to all in the future!!

Saturday, October 29, 2005

Congratulations to Carly Springer

CONGRATULATIONS TO CARLY SPRINGER !!!!!
(or should we say):
"QUEEN CARLY SPRINGER"
For those who've been under a rock or are just now getting the news - our very own Lady Bulldog DS Carly Springer - who looks and plays great on ANY court - was named as the 2005 Magnolia High School Homecoming Queen last night at the homecoming football game ...
We have to agree, after all we've known all along - that Carly was the best choice and most desrving of the honor. Great job, Carly and best of luck to you in the future and in whatever you do!

Friday, October 28, 2005

Lady Bulldogs Warm and Cozy in the Dawg House

Even the supporting cast was on fire in tonight's match against Klein Oak.


Warm and cozy? Who are we kidding?.....The Lady Bulldogs were on FIRE tonight as they lit up the scoreboard while sweeping the Klein Oak Lady Panthers by playing perhaps their finest match of the season! The Lady Bulldogs played with great intensity in front of their hometown fans by overpowering and out-hustling the Lady Panthers in 3 games (27-25, 25-17, and blowing away Klein Oak 25-11 in Game #3).

It's easy to see how there is 'no chance' to defend against the 'Williams' Glide'.

Here's the 'unoffical' results:
In Game #1 Michele 'Boom Boom' Williams got the Lady Bulldogs going with a thundering kill at 2-2, followed by a couple of kills by Lauren Michael to put them on top at 5-4. The Lady Bulldogs held the lead with some great plays by Hannah Fort (a kill and ace serve); Michele Williams (2 Blocked points and 4 kills); Jamie Kaleh's kill off the Lady Panthers arms; and another Lauren Michael kill thrown in; until Magnolia faltered somewhat and Klein Oak made a surge (very reminiscent of the "heart-stopping" Game #1 vs Klein Oak in the Spring Branch Tournament semifinals - which Magnolia won 27-25) to go ahead at 23-21.
After a strategic time-out, the Bulldogs used Lauren Michael's arms and legs to tie the game up with kills at 23-23 and 24-24. The advantage went back to Klein Oak at 25-24, then tied again at 25-25. Michele Williams stunned the Lady Panthers with a great blocked point at 26-25 - the crowd got wild and Klein Oak called a time-out to cool down the Dawgs. When play resumed, a great volley ensued until Heather Bowden made an outstanding defensive play getting the ball back over the net (backwards) and Klein Oak couldn't return it Ding!...
Dawgs: 27..Panthers: 25...

Lady Bulldog OH Jamie Kaleh "puttin' on the hits"
on the left side against a pair of Lady Panthers.
Game #2 the Lady Bulldogs led from start to finish utilizing their momentum and a balanced attack. Jamie Kaleh played extremely well tonight (3 kills and a ace serve in this game) with help from Kelli Stewart ( a kill and blocked point); Hannah Fort (2 kills, ace serve and assist blk with Lauren Michael); Michele Williams (2 kills); Lauren Michael (3 kills); and 2 ace serves by Caitlin Holland. Whew....I'm sure I left some one out...it was tough keeping up with all those bodies flying all over the place! Setters Mary Chadwick and Caitlin Holland played great defensively as well, and combined their skills to produce 31 assists while keeping the Lady Panthers on the run. But the Lady Bulldogs had some really great digs -mostly from Klein Oak's main weapon (Bridget LaPlante) while they were putting on quite a 'defensive show'. I do know, though...the Lady Bulldogs clearly dominated the Lady Panthers and sparked a hot burning flame that lit up the Dawg House!

Lady Panther Bridget LaPlante is 'monster' blocked by Heather

Bowden and Hannah Fort and the game was turned in Magnolia's favor.

Game #3... again, Jamie Kaleh lit it up with 3 kills and a blocked point; Hannah Fort had a smorgasbord of: 2 kills, 2 blocked points, an ace serve, and a great assist blk with Heather Bowden - on a Bridget LaPlante monster hit; 'Boom Boom' had 2 kills (one from her patented 'Williams' Glide') and a blocked point; and a paltry 3 kills from Lauren Michael (one from the back row). With each point the crowd got louder - 'juicing' the ladies even more; the bench was into the moment- and doing "the Wave"; and the Lady Bulldogs responded by pouring on the attack - stretching the lead to 15 points at 23-8, before relenting to a final score of 25-11. Coach J gave the ladies a rest and substituted players so they could gain some well earned playoff-type experience and to avoid any injuries.
Leaders: Magnolia - Lauren Michael - 12 kills, 1 ace, 9 digs, 1 block; Michelle Williams - 10 kills, 6 digs, 3 blocks; Jamie Kaleh - 7 kills, 1 ace, 4 digs, 1 block; Hannah Fort - 6 kills, 3 aces, 2 digs, 3 blocks; Kelli Stewart - 1 kill, 1 block; Kristin Bergen - 10 digs; Heather Bowden - 3 blocks; Caitlin Holland - 2 aces, 14 assists; Mary Chadwick - 1 ace, 17 assists
Klein Oak - Bridget LaPlante - 13 kills
Records: Magnolia 25 - 11......Klein Oak 27 - 8

OH Lauren Michael launching a kill cross court in Game #2.
Wow!!...What a great warmup match this turned out to be for the Lady Bulldogs! The ladies needed to continue to build up their confidence and momentum (from the Cy Falls' match forward) as they prepare for Tuesday night's match against the Memorial Lady Mustangs. The Mustangs took care of Langham Creek tonight in 3 games (25-15, 25-19, and 25-20) and we can only hope they take Magnolia lightly. The peaking Lady Bulldogs, on the other hand need to prepare themselves, 'lie low' until game time, and play their game aggressively and intensely - like they did tonight! They should feel confident that they can play with ANYbody!

GO LADY BULLDOGS !!! BULLDOG POWER !!! BULLDOG PRIDE !!!