Lancaster High School has a winning athletic culture. Multiple state championships have been won by LHS teams in multiple sports - and post season play is almost expected every year.
Within the last few years, that has not always been true for the school's volleyball team. However, under Head Coach Montonya Jackson, the team's cuLTure is changing.
"We have 5 am weekend practices and skills training to enhance our game," says junior blocker Anaya Hairston.
"We also work with the younger athletes from the middle school to help prepare them for this level of play. Because of this you can see how this formula is shaping Lancaster Volleyball into a team to be respected across the state."
The Lady Tigers used the cuLTure they built and this season's experience to defeat Carrollton Creekview Tuesday (November 2) 3 sets to 1. Their next test is even more stout. They take on Frisco Reedy, the Lions, Friday (November 5) in the UIL 5A area championship round.
The Reedy Lions are first in District 5A-9 and are 29-6 for the regular season. They defeated The Colony in straight sets to reach this match-up with the Lancaster Lady Tigers.
"We watched film on them. They block really well and hit really well," says senior Aliyah Smith. "To beat them, we have to put up a solid block and dig the ball exceptionally well."
Lancaster has tremendous blockers - including stand-out junior Logan Carr.
"This team has so much talent from big blockers, great hitters that kill the ball consistently, amazing setters, and outstanding Liberos," adds junior DS/Libero Amayia Price.
The team knows this game is important and a potential turning point for the program.
"We've been preparing for this since before the season started," says Hairston.
"It's always been my personal goal and the team's goal to make a run in the playoffs - and this is our chance to prove Lancaster Volleyball is a team that cannot be overlooked."
The Lancaster Lady Tigers face the Frisco Reedy Lady Lions at 7 pm at Forester Field House, 8233 Military Parkways. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.gofan.co then searching for Lancaster or clicking the following direct link: https://bit.ly/3mPIZKK.
