Independence swept host Brooklyn on Thursday in a win that extended the Blue Devils’ conference win streak to 130 straight matches.
The Blue Devils last lost a Chagrin Valley Conference match back on Sept. 6, 2012. Their conference winning streak is the fifth longest in Ohio High School Athletic Association history.
“Our winning streak is greatly important to our team because it represents the success in the program in the past and the present,” said Independence junior Alberta Moreal. “So many players before worked so hard to keep that streak alive, which motivates us to keep it going.”
The Blue Devils used that motivation to sweep the Hurricanes, 25-11, 25-5, 25-6, on Thursday and improved to 6-0 overall and 5-0 in the CVC Metro Division. Independence has won all 18 sets it has played this season.
“It feels great and uplifting to have another successful game under our belt,” Moreal said. “I think experience is the key for our team since we are still pretty young, so it is important for us to see a variety of competition.”
Independence’s young roster has improved each match and continues to play aggressively and consistently.
“I believe the key to our team’s win tonight was consistency,” Moreal said. “We played 0-25 with continuous energy and effort, which led us to a great victory. Every player kept their focus for the entirety of the match, which allowed us to keep the steady momentum and success.”
Moreal has settled into her role as the team’s setter and her stable of hitters has complemented her well.
“Running the offense can be difficult but I’m so glad I have the job,” she said. “Our hitters are doing an excellent job and working hard every day when it comes to hitting or blocking. Anna Jirmasek has improved greatly and it such a smart player at the net. Anna Waski’s speed has tremendously improved, which helps so much when it comes to getting block touches. We all have a great connection and chemistry, which I know helps us reach the victories we have. Our team has progressed, and I know we will continue to do so, and I am so excited to keep getting stronger for the rest of the way.”
