Budding Rivalry Blooms Between Devils, Tigers

Two things are certain about Avon Park's first-round match with Palmetto: Neither team is taking its opponent likely, and both teams were hoping they'd meet again.

When the Red Devils and Tigers meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, only one will have the last word in a season series that's brought the best out of a feisty, senior-laden Avon Park squad.

But the budding rivalry has also brought the worst out in both sides.

"The first time we played (at Palmetto), we collectively had a bad game," said first-year Avon Park coach Stephanie Devlin. "So when they came over to Avon Park, they Mthought they were going to run into a team they'd easily beat.

"But we came out and played our hardest."

The result was an Avon Park sweep that had emotions running high on both sides because of disputed calls, a situation that culminated in Tiger head coach Rachel Taylor leaving the gym mid-match with a yellow card.

"It got under our skin," said Avon Park senior Brearnna Tate after the match. "This team can't wait for the playoffs."

Aside from the off-court drama, Devlin said the Devils' communication improved the second go-round with the Tigers, which is key to AP's scrappy, undersized defense.

Led by senior Melissa Tullo and sophomore Zakia Hart, Devlin is counting on the Red Devil back line to continue its strong play.

Devlin called Tullo her "defensive specialist" and said Hart's extra time at the Avon Park Rec. Center has strengthened her swing and given her confidence around the net.

"We'll be able to dig some," Devlin said. "Most of my team is 5-foot-4, so that's pretty much what we do -try to read the hit."

With nine seniors on the roster, the Red Devils will draw on plenty of experience, and Devlin said the team is excited about the chance to show their stuff.

"Being this could be the seniors' last hurrah, they're optimistic about doing well and playing their hardest," Devlin said. "Every game could potentially be your last, so you have to take it one game."

See highlandstoday.com/sports for results on Tuesday night and Thursday's Highlands Today for complete coverage.

4A-D10 Volleyball

Avon Park vs. Palmetto

TUESDAY at 6 p.m.