Volleyball
Riverhawks Two Players Down as Season Ends
Picture a movie where something bad happens and as the character tries to be optimistic, it begins to rain. That rain just turned to a torrential downpour showering the Riverhawks as the team fights to finish the season strong.
Umpqua, who closed last year with a 0-10, 7-33 record, is currently 0-5, 7-18 and quickly approaching the end of another short season.
But what is to be expected after losing sophomore libero Elysha Lang to a shoulder injury during the Linfield JV match Oct. 7.
Lang was a tremendous back row player, saving numerous balls. She had 86 digs in just 18 games and is now out for the rest of the season.
Cue the monsoon.
Murphy’s Law hung over the Riverhawks as seemingly out of nowhere sophomore setter Cierra Cotton quit the day after Lang’s injury.
Keep in mind a setter plays a huge part on the team. Without a setter, a volleyball team will more than likely struggle to have an offense.
Making such a decision in a situation like this leads to one of two outcomes: a potential tragedy or an overcoming victory.
The Linfield JV game, the night Lang was injured, was also a game in which Cotton did not perform as well as usual, statistically speaking.
Cotton had no recorded statistics in the single game played which was abnormal compared to her 11 sets per match average from previous matches.
The specific motive for her resignation is not a popular public discussion, regardless it's unfortunate to see her leave. With 66 sets in 17 games, Cotton led the team in assists per game, 3.88.
Her team, whether they agree with her decision or not, still accept and support Cotton. They strive to maintain healthy friendships with her.
The Lady ‘Hawks have enjoyed the time they have invested into this program. However, now with Lang injured and a player short, the women are trying to end their season on a good note. Although the season may not encompass as many wins as desired, the team is still proud of the seven wins accounted for.
