You know the gyms are packed when you go to games at class 1 and 2 schools. The place is loud and you get the best out of the players. That is how it felt last night at the old gym at Francis Howell. The new gym is yet to be completed so parents and supporters for both teams filled the bleachers as well as chairs along the wall at each end. As I looked around I saw coaches from most of the larger club teams from the St Louis area as well as some college coaches. St Joe and IWA were well represented as well by players, parents and some grandparents. Coach K was present without the microphone - too bad! The #1 and #3 teams from the large school group (#7 and #34 nationally) put on a good show of VB talent. Francis Howell was lead by hitters Danielle Rygelski (St Louis U) and Jovani Faucette (Louisville). Mandy Glon Houston) provide some inspirational help as she provided blocking support despite playing on a broken foot. Howell was never able to mount a consistent challenge to the strong blocking of the Lafayette front line. Lafayette was lead by Melanie Crow (Ole Miss) who is normally strong on blocks but contributed a team high 5 kills, Stephanie Campbell (Auburn) and Maddie Jones (uncommitted) continued to put pressure up the middle on offense and defense. Lily Johnson (Missouri State) and Maggie Scott (Oregon) continued their strong play as well. Even though the final tally was 25-18, 25-15, the teams both showed that they are strong candidates to return to Cape Girardeau in November. Improvement in certain areas will be needed by both schools as the year moves forward. Great job girls! It was fun to watch!