In the first set, Gaylord maintained a lead throughout as Alpena had difficulty getting past Gaylord’s blocks.

However, the Wildcats began to find better communication on the court in the second set, leading to a more competitive back-and-forth match.

Coach Kolby Andrews emphasized the importance of communication in reducing errors, stating, “When we communicate, we make fewer errors. If we end the night with earning more points than we give up on errors, we win.”

Alpena nearly evened the match in the second set, but was edged out by Gaylord 25-22.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Alpena High School’s Kiera Prue, left, and Grace Cameron jump to block the ball during the Wildcats’ contest against Gaylord on Wednesday at Alpena High.

The Wildcats secured a win in the third set, 25-17, with Paige Samp and Kiera Prue leading the team with effective spikes, while Samp also made key saves against Gaylord’s spikes.

Emily VanHorn and Laura Poli made several successful out-of-bounds saves, helping to keep the team in the match.

Andrews highlighted the importance of initiative and momentum in the team’s third-set success.

“Somebody has to take the initiative to just secure that next point,” the coach said. “Pretty soon, a one-point lead turns into a two-point lead and they allowed us to pull up the victory there.”

Throughout the game, Alpena demonstrated the ability to adjust their spike timing and take advantage of gaps in Gaylord’s defense.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns The Alpena High School volleyball team celebrates after winning a tough rally against Gaylord on Wednesday at Alpena High.

Andrews noted: “When the defense takes away one of your shots, you have to have the ability to adjust, and our girls did that, especially in that third set, where we pulled out a victory.”

In the fourth set, Gaylord’s blocking and consistent play led to a 25-12 set victory for the Blue Devils, closing out the match.

Despite the loss, Alpena’s performance in the second and third sets showed improved communication and adaptability, aspects the team can continue to build on.

Alpena plays its last home game against Cadillac on Wednesday.