This story has been updated. Mareena Clotfelter is filling in for Sarah Holt, not Megan Kunold.
POULSBO — It’s been a true team effort for the North Kitsap Vikings this season, according to coach Tim French.
“They understand the value of teamwork and the value of selflessness,” French said. “It’s pretty powerful.”
That teamwork now brings the team to a new obstacle, the district tournament.
The Vikings are readying themselves for a 7 p.m. match against the Lindbergh Eagles today. It’s a loser-out situation. The winner goes on to play Sumner.
The Vikings rallied back from a season-ending injury to Sarah Holt, who may need surgery on torn ligaments in her left leg in a few weeks.
Finishing second in the subdistrict tournament, the Vikings earned the No. 2 seed into Districts, behind the Sequim Wolves.
French has been told the Vikings would surprise some teams this season. However, he feels the team has not surprised itself.
With room to grow as a team, French said players such as Abigail Baldwin have shown improvement. Baldwin’s confidence as a middle blocker is improving, which French said is part confidence and part skill building.
Mareena Clotfelter, who is currently filling in for Holt, took on a difficult role as well. Kunold was originally positioned as a middle blocker/right side hitter. She is now playing as setter.
Heading into the District tournament, French has also brought up JV players Vanessa Larios, Molly Lemmon and Autumn Johnson. Johnson will be a backup setter. Larios’ and Lemmon’s height may be utilized if need be (5 foot 9 inches and 5’6” respectively).
A win during the Vikings/Lindbergh match means a match against Sumner Nov. 3. The winner of that will move on to play the Washington/(TBD) match.
The teams are vying for seeding into the State championships. Of the 12 total teams at Districts, six will advance.