By Andrew Cato, ShowMe Times Sports Editor

ESSEX -- The Lady ‘Cats opened their 2011 campaign in dominating fashion against the Richland Lady Rebels on Monday night.

The Lady ‘Cats swept the contest, winning both the JV (25-16, 25-3) and Varsity (25-19, 25-15) matches in two sets.

“I think we got our first-game jitters out of the way,” head coach Lauren Hutchcraft said. “I thought we were prepared - we got out here and were a little shaky, especially in the first set.”

The ‘Cats were led by a great group of returning players - Lindsey Hindman recorded seven digs and three aces; Hannah Noe recorded seven assists, nine digs, and four aces; Libero Erika Mouser recorded 11 digs and was 8/8 from the service line - and some ‘new blood’ in freshman Jessica Lindsey.


Lindsey, the lone freshman on the varsity squad, put up great numbers in her first match: six digs, five kills, four blocks, one ace, and was 7/8 from the service line.

“Jessica Lindsey, she ended up with four blocks tonight. She is probably nervous, but you can't tell,” Hutchcraft noted. “She’s played phenomenal ball so far, being a freshman that’s pulled up on varsity - especially playing some of the teams we play. I’m glad we got the first game out of the way so she can get over some nerves.”


Despite the lopsided score, Hutchcraft noted the talent of her squad’s opponent. “Richland played well tonight,” she said. “They have some great girls on their team.”


The Lady ‘Cats will face the Kennett Lady Indians in their home opener Tuesday (Aug. 30) night at the BEC. Hutchcraft said the team looks forward to the district matchup, but noted that her team would have to be a little sharper on the court to move to 2-0 on the season.

“We face Kennett tomorrow night at home. They will be a good team, with some really athletic girls,” Hutchcraft said, “and they’re district competition, so hopefully we’re less nervous and play a little better tomorrow night.”

JV action is set to begin at 6:00 p.m., with Varsity action immediately following.