Chemistry equals victory for volleyball

On Tuesday, Sept. 12, chemistry was demonstrated in front of a crowd of 85 people, but it was not in a classroom.
The Southern University Lady Jaguars volleyball team exemplified the art of chemistry as they formed together and defeated the Lady Tigers of Texas Southern University 3-1, for their first Southwestern Athletic Conference win at home in Seymour gymnasium.
“This year we tried to capitalize more discipline and closeness within the program,” said second year assistant coach Carthenia Clark. “And the chemistry amongst the girls definitely shows in the game.”
Southern (3-4) was led by the current SWAC Defensive Player of the Week, Ena Payne, a sophomore and native of Breaux Bridge. She guided her team to victory with a career high of 19 kills. She also concluded the game with nine digs.
“I knew I had to play hard to help us win this game,” said Payne.
This game was the paramount of Candace Southall’s young college career. The freshman from Hitchcock, Texas was ecstatic after she recorded 12 kills and 12 digs.
“I knew I had to go for everything in the fourth game in order for us to win,” said Southall.
The Lady Jags were successful in the first match 30-28 but the Lady Tigers were a force to battle with as they fought their way to a 30-28 win in the second match.
However, the Lady Jags were not going to give up that easily, instead they continued to fight back until they were victorious and went on to win match three and four 30-28 and 30-28.
This year’s volleyball team consists of young players, four freshman and three sophomores with lone senior Shametia Whitaker stepping up as a role model on and off the court for the girls.
“As the only senior I have to step it up and be a team leader” said Whitaker. “I not only have to lead the team to a victory, I have to lead by example in my action both on and off the court.”
Whitaker helped out with nine digs and nine kills.
The skill of the team appears to be better than ever this year, however there is always room for advancement.
“The girls this year are pretty good but we have to advance our level of competition,” said Whitaker.
Hard work, determination and togetherness are the key ingredients for the chemistry of the Lady Jags.
“We are determined to win,” said Payne. “Each day as we work harder we are getting closer to victory.”
The Lady Jaguars will travel this weekend to Montgomery, Ala. to take part in the Alabama State University tournament.
On September 19, they will face Centenary College, at home in Seymour.