ANSONIA — The Lady Tigers defeated National Trail in four sets to earn a WOAC victory on senior night.
Ansonia came out strong, playing with confidence and winning the first two sets, 25-15 and 25-17. Junior Annie Wendel’s serving helped the Tigers build separation in both sets. Charlotte Barga and Autumn Best added strong swings at the net, while Dani Gibbs set up the offense as Ansonia appeared poised to close out the match in straight sets.
National Trail changed the momentum in the third set with strong serving and big swings of its own, disrupting the Tigers’ rhythm and taking the set 25-11.
“We got a little comfortable after the first two sets,” Ansonia coach Katie Walter said.
The Tigers responded in the fourth, returning to the strong serving and hitting that had worked earlier in the match. They also took a more patient approach, attacking what the defense gave them.
“Our seniors stepped up and set the tone for this team in that fourth set. They weren’t going to let this team lose and led the way,” Walter said.
Seniors Elly Lock and Gibbs helped rally the team, and the rest of the Tigers followed their lead. Gibbs also helped distribute the ball and put her teammates in position for strong swings.
“I really liked the way our team came together for our seniors. That was the biggest thing for us tonight,” Walter said.
Both seniors played supporting roles on last year’s district team. With many talented players graduating, they have taken on more prominent roles this season.
“Our seniors have thrived this season as players and leaders, with Dani’s all-around play and Elly at libero. They’re great leaders for us,” Walter said.
Ansonia won the fourth set 25-14 to secure the match, improving to 7-13 overall and 4-6 in the WOAC. After working through an early-season injury, the young Tigers are building confidence as the postseason approaches.
“We have been able to work through an early-season injury, and our girls’ mindset and focus is on what we can bring into each game. We’re a young team that has worked hard all the way since the summer and don’t plan on stopping anytime soon,” Walter said.
