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Panthers Make Strides In Four-Set Loss To Seahawks

Brian Gjurgevich/Highlands Today

SFCC coach Kim Crawford (right) relays instructions onto the court on Thursday at Panther Gym.

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By BRIAN GJURGEVICH

Highlands Today

Published: August 30, 2008

AVON PARK - The South Florida Community College volleyball team put it all together for one game on Thursday night in their home opener against Broward Community College, but the Seahawks' polished offense proved too much to contain as Broward rolled to a 25-14, 25-19, 25-27, 25-14 victory over the Panthers.

"We came out strong and put some points up right away (in the third set)," said SFCC volleyball coach Kim Crawford. "We had some smart rallies and some big blocks, and when stuff like that happens, it's a huge motivator."

Sophomore Emmalee Luther led the Panthers with nine kills, while sophomore Heloise Antony had 18 digs. Kysi Wooden added six kills, while setter Brie Engel had 29 assists to keep the Panthers' offense moving.

It was the first set win of the season for SFCC, who was blanked by Florida College in their opener on Tuesday. The Panthers traveled to Leesburg to face Lake Sumter CC on Friday night (see Monday's sports section for results) and play again at home on Tuesday again Webber International University.

Crawford said she saw plenty of positive signs against the Seahawks, and that once she gets her rotation set, the Panthers will become more comfortable on the floor.

"Once we get the feel of a certain mix of girls, we'll settle down," Crawford said. "We have strong personalities on this team, and that's a great asset, as long as those personalities work together as a group."

Reading opponents' strengths will also be a focus before Suncoast Conference play begins Sept. 9.

"At this level, it's important not only to learn your own rotations, but to learn and know how to pick up where (an opponent's) setter is or where their dominant hitter is," Crawford said. "I'm putting a lot of pressure on them to pick up that aspect.

"Their eyes are opening, and they're seeing what they have to do to get wins."

Brian Gjurgevich can be reached at 863-386-5841 or bgjurgevich@highlandstoday.com.

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