A new trophy is being added to the case outside the Coal City Middle School gymnasium, a symbol of the hard work and dedication of the seventh grade volleyball team.
The team, coached by Gina Horrie, took second place in the Illinois Elementary School Association’s 4A Volleyball State Championship on March 9.
The Lady Coalers began play on Friday and defeated Chatham Glenwood in two sets—25-19 and 25-12. The win advanced them to the Final Four on Saturday, March 10. In the second round, the Coalers played a tougher team, but they played amazing, defeating St. Jacob Triad in two sets— 25-23 and 25-19.
The crowd went totally crazy, because they made it into the top two, so they were guaranteed a trophy.
They played a very tough team in the championship round and gave it their all in the final match. The Coalers lost in two sets—25-12 and 25-11.
“We are so proud of the girls. They represented our school so well. We won and lost with such class and dignity. They are the true meaning of a ‘team.’ Thank you so much to all the fans, teachers, and staff that came down on Friday and Saturday. It was amazing seeing all the support for our girls,” said Coach Horrie.