Linn’s varsity volleyball team (17-7-3) won all three matches last week, and hope to use the momentum heading into the final week before districts.

“It was another great week for our team,” said Coach Megan Russell. “The girls stayed consistent, played with energy, and kept their focus through every match. We’ve seen contributions from everyone this week. It’s great to see different players step up in different moments. We are really starting to find our rhythm and trust each other. 

On Thursday, the Lady Cats defeated Russellville on the road, 25-15, 25-21, 22-25, 25-18.

Stats: Aces: Nicole Grellner (7), Kylie Goans (5), Ali Russell (3); kills: Jorja Kempker (10), Russell and Carley Brandt (8 each), Goans (7); blocks: Brandt (4), Nevaeh Ames and Kempker (1 each); digs: Grellner (19), Goans (11); assists: Grellner (14), Goans (10).

Lexy Strong and Kendra Robinson were perfect from the service line, and Russell (42.9%) and Kempker (27.3%) led Linn’s hitting effort.

Last Tuesday, Linn knocked off North Callaway in straight sets, 25-20, 25-22, 25-9.

Stats: Aces: Nicole Grellner (7), Russell, Goans (2 each); kills: Brandt (11), Russell, Grellner (7 apiece); blocks: Ames (4), Brandt, Kempker (2 each); digs: Grellner (18), Russell (16); assists: Grellner (14), Goans (11).

Russell, Grellner, Strong, Riley Kay, and Goans covered 100% of their serves.

Linn opened last week with Monday’s 25-11, 25-9, 25-8 over St. James.

Stats: Aces: Grellner (8), Kay (5); kills: Russell (8), Brandt, Grellner (6 each); blocks: Brandt (1); digs: Russell, Goans (3 each); assists: Goans (13), Grellner (10).

Russell and Strong were perfect at the line.

Coach Russell said the team’s focus is sharp. “Every game and practice is intentional now with the postseason on our minds,” she added.

Linn is the second seed in the Class 2 District 6 tournament at Hermann. The Lady Cats have a first-round bye and on Thursday, Oct. 23, at 7:30 p.m. will play the winner of the match between North Callaway and Montgomery County.