Alex Jaffe, Nederland . The Nederland Volleyball teams had their first practice on March 8, 2021, and played their final game on April 24, 2021. 

The girls played Front Range Christian in their final game and junior varsity (JV), lost 0-2 and varsity played hard but also lost 0-3. Previous to this game the girls played Highland High School on April 22nd, JV lost 0-2 and varsity lost 0-3 as well. On April 20th they played Dawson High where JV lost 0-2 and varsity lost 0-3. On the 15th they played Lyons High, varsity lost 0-3. On 13th they played Gilpin High and JV lost 0-2 and varsity lost 0-3. On the 12th, the team played Denver Christian and JV lost 0-2 and the varsity team lost 0-3. The team played Union Colony on the 7th and varsity lost 0-3. They also played on the 5th against Longmont Christian and lost 0-3 for varsity. They played all their games in April, a shortened season because of Covid-19.

This year on the varsity team there were three graduating seniors, Maddie Prince, Rylee Kutscher, and Allison Hardt-Zeman. Despite this crazy year all of the girls played their hardest. 

Team captain Rylee Kutsher says, “It was definitely different and some aspects were lost but overall it was a great year. We got to keep a lot of our traditions and bonded as a team despite the strangeness of the season”.

Senior Allison Hardt-Zeman says, “Playing volleyball this year was absolutely amazing. I built so many friendships, and can’t wait to see how the team improves next year. I would like to thank Coach Steph and Coach Zotti, for not only making us a team but making us a family. Volleyball isn’t easy, but when you’re playing it with the right team, it’s one of the best experiences ever.” 

This year’s team also had amazing coaches throughout this hectic season, and Assistant Coach Nicole Zotti says, “This volleyball season was amazing. I am so honored and proud to have been a part of the team this year. I had such a blast getting to know these fun and talented ladies; they persevered through a tough, short, intense season with grace and dignity. I look forward to next season with excitement and enthusiasm! Go Panthers!” 

The Lady Panthers worked very hard throughout the season and played even harder, and despite Covid-19 the ladies still had a great season. Great job Panthers.

(Originally published in the April 29, 2021, edition of The Mountain-Ear.)