Cape volleyball loses close one to Conrad

Cape volleyball coach Tyler Coupe gave his longtime friend and Conrad coach Jen Skinner a congratulatory hug after the Red Wolves defeated the Vikings in five sets Oct. 10 on the Cape hardwood. Coupe’s squad was up two sets to one and had the lead in the fourth, but could not pull off the the victory over the tough upstate opponent. Just 12 points separated the teams in the last three games of the 14-25, 25-15, 23-25, 25-18, 15-12 Conrad victory.  

“Tonight’s a frustrating loss,” said Coupe. “I don’t think we performed up to the standard we expect of ourselves. Conrad plays an aggressive form of ball where they’re unafraid to attack at any time. Even through the errors they made, they kept attacking and putting pressure on our defense. Our lack of communication became an issue throughout the match, where we had moments of uncertainty of who was taking what balls. In sets two and three, I liked the freedom of how we played – moved more loosely as a defensive unit and attacked with range.”

Cape was led by Harper Mamele’s 18 kills and 28 digs. Libero Amara Fruchtman scored 37 digs, while setter Kaylee Sockriter put up 37 assists and was credited with 19 digs. 

Conrad was led by bookend outside hitters freshman Delani Camilli with 21 kills and 21 digs, and senior Emily Hartnett with 17 kills and 28 digs. 

“We started off a little unfocused and got in ruts,” said Cape senior Amalia Fruchtman. “However, in the second and third sets, we locked in and focused on hitting weaker spots in their defense, which allowed us to score more efficiently. We played hard the entire game; we just got stuck in some holes throughout the game, which hurt us in the end.”

“I think after the second set we lost our communication,” said Cape senior McKenzie Everson. “We didn’t come out with a bang like we normally do. We had a low energy level, but I think the communication got us.”

“We started off a little slow on energy, but we always pick it up,” said Cape senior Rylee Ockels. “Then we made mistakes that are out of character for us. We just need to lock in. We have a few really tough matches coming up.”

Coupe spoke about focus needed for the next week.

“Three matches in a week is never easy, but we’ve got it again next week where each match is going to be tough. As the season winds down, we’ve got to continue to trust in each other and the process of growth. I’ve got full faith in us as a group. We’re going to keep grinding it out to push ourselves forward.”

The Vikings face Appoquinmink, Caesar Rodney and Smyrna this week.