News

SpikeKey Falls Short at the Hermosa AVP Qualifier

(August 6-9, 2009)

After an exhausting weekend atClearwater Beach, SpikeKey competed in the Hermosa Beach Qualifier to earn a spot in the main draw. Megan and Chara handily won their first match in two games, defeating a consistent main draw team fromCalifornia. During the second match, wind became a huge factor, wreaking havoc and testing every team’s ball control. Unfortunately, SpikeKey suffered a disappointing loss in the wind, but left the tournament full of determination to become accomplished wind players and prepared for Mother Nature’s wrath. The unexpected wind variable served as a great reminder that adaptation is a key component and skill in beach volleyball.

SpikeKey’s Highest Finish on the AVP

(August 20-23, 2009)

After a weekend of rest, SpikeKey headed toMuskegon,Michigan. This was the first timeMuskegon hosted an AVP event since 2001. As luck would have it, the weather forecast for the Muskegon Qualifier called for rain and wind; wind more intense than at Hermosa. Megan and Chara played their Qualifier match in pouring rain and blustery winds. SpikeKey’s victory in the wind on Thursday resulted in a berth in the main draw on Friday.

SpikeKey’s first main draw match was against Ashley Ivy and Lauren Fedrick a top AVP team and FIVB leader. It was a close match, but the win was not to be. The loss placed Megan and Chara in the Contender’s Bracket, which is single elimination; one loss and you’re done for the weekend. Megan and Chara’s next match was against another team fromFlorida. After winning two straight games, Megan and Chara advanced to the next round, where they were matched against the 8^th seek on center court.

Words don’t do justice to the excitement and emotional intensity of the match. Megan and Chara jumped off to a fast start, taking the first game 21-19. The second game was a battle, but Megan and Chara came up a bit short, losing 16-21. As a result, the match went to a deciding third game. Little did the crowd suspect the treat that was in store. The third game was neck and neck the whole way, with SpikeKey having game point five times, and their opponent having four opportunities to put the match away.

According to the rules, the third game is played to 15. However, the close match ended in a 22-20 final score, with Megan and Chara taking the win. The center court crowd was on its feet at every game point and went absolutely wild when SpikeKey put away the final point.Michigan State fans andGrand Valley fans screamed and cheered for Megan and Chara the entire match.

The emotional victory advanced SpikeKey to Saturday play, where they faced another top AVP team. Megan and Chara had another close game, almost forcing a third game, but falling just short 27-25 in the second game. Megan and Chara left the tournament with their heads held high and eager to best their 13^th place finish with a 9^th place finish at the next AVP event. SpikeKey directly attributes its success in the wind atMuskegon to their experience at Hermosa a couple weeks previous.