Hornets Advance In Volleyball District

TEMPERANCE — The Saline Hornets weren't at their best when MHSAA Class A district volleyball action began at Bedford Tuesday night, but they were good enough to beat Milan.

The Hornets swept the Big Reds, winning 25-16, 25-11 and 25-19.

Saline plays host Bedford at 5:30 p.m. Thursday. Monroe, who swept Ypsilanti Lincoln Tuesday night, faces Ypsilanti in the other semifinal Thursday. The district final takes place at 7 p.m. Saturday.

The Hornets were led by Mackenzie Shand, who had 12 kills, and Marissa Owen, who had 28 assists and 5 aces. Natalie Sheridan led from the back row with 18 digs. She also served five aces.

"Winning the first round of districts is always a good thing and it's harder than you might think because of the fear that this might be the last match of the season," said coach Lisa Shea. "After some first set butterflies, I really felt like the girls played with some joy and energy and I think it showed."

Shea said her team played well at the net, aggressively going after points. She said the team was a little sloppy with serve receive and passing.

Co-captain Marissa Owen said the Hornets look forward to Thursday's match against Bedford, who came back from a 2-0 deficit to beat Saline on Sept. 27.

"We really want to win that match," said Owen. "We're going to be working really hard in practice to be ready."