Arendell Parrott continues undefeated season
Arendell Parrott coach David Barnes talks to his players after Tuesday’s straight-sets win over St. David’s. Photo by Junious Smith III / Neuse News
It’s business as usual for Arendell Parrott, even with an extended layoff.
The Patriots defeated St. David’s 25-18, 26-24, 25-22 Tuesday to improve their record to 11-0 on the season. APA hadn't played a game since Harrells Christian on Sept. 6, but Tuesday's sweep marked their ninth consecutive straight-sets victory.
“We have each other’s back,” Alli Grant Avery said. “If I mess up, someone else can cover for me and if someone makes a big play, we all get excited for them. We love being back and playing good teams. It’s so fun and it brings us all together.”
The Patriots’ big scare came in the second set with the Warriors (8-7) leading most of the way, including a 24-20 advantage. Alli Grant Avery picked up one of his 20 kills for the day and then Gisell Cervantes secured five consecutive service points as APA rallied for the victory.
“It was a lot of pressure to think about it, but instead of going to a certain sport I just made sure to get the ball over,” Cervantes said. “It was a nice experience, especially with the help of my teammates and the energy they give.”
APA practiced four times during the break, but coach David Barnes said the last two sessions were the most productive.
“We were able to bring in college players in one practice and then the adults played against them, giving the girls a gameplay look and preparation for a great St. David’s team,” Barnes said. “Set 2 was really big whenever St. David’s had the momentum. We were behind but able to turn their best effort against them and make a stop, but Set 3 was tough as well.
“This year, our conference is powerful. There’s us, St. David’s, Cary Christian which is 16-0, and Grace Christian. There’s not an easy opponent in this conference.”
Barnes said a win like this should play a pivotal role in the team’s confidence later in the season.
“If we get back into a situation like this, we can say ‘remember St. David’s,’” Barnes said. “We turned it around there and we can do it again if we need to.”
