Olympian volleyball prepares for semi-state competition

The+Olympians+celebrate+after+scoring+a+point+against+Columbus+North.

Julia Claire Randle

The Olympians celebrate after scoring a point against Columbus North.

Caleb Kinnaird, Social Media Team

Columbus East volleyball is on fire right now. They have won four games in a row and seven of their last eight, with the only recent loss coming from state powerhouse, Carmel.

East, currently ranked No. 12 in the state, will take on No. 5 Avon in their semi-state matchup on Saturday at East.

The team is looking to bounce back from a loss to Avon earlier in the season but is not going to be intimidated by their presence.

“The loss earlier in the season doesn’t mean much. They are definitely beatable,” freshman outside hitter Allison Mack said.

The conclusion of the playoffs is looking hopeful for the Olympians due to their success thus far. They won all three of their sectional games 3-0, and the regional championship 3-1.

Although East will be facing tough competition, they are no stranger to it. This season has included multiple games against the top 25 teams in the state.

The team has been putting in work during practice to prepare for the big game over the weekend.

“Coach Pagnard always tells us that work wins, so that’s what we do. We have been working our hardest to prepare for the rest of the postseason,” senior libero Brooke Banister said.

Banister recorded 13 digs and two aces in East’s 3-1 win against No. 8 Center Grove in the regional championship on Tuesday.

With a win in their game against Avon, East would move on to the semi-state championship and play the winner of Cathedral vs. Floyd Central.