The Spartan 2018 volleyball season came to an end on Saturday, Oct. 27, with a loss to Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Nebraska, during regional tournament action. Despite the loss, sophomore outside hitter Jada Perkins (pictured) made the All-Tournament Team.

Spartan Head Coach Casey Quiggle views the season as a small step in the right direction.

"Back in August, the team began training and preparing for the 2018 season," said the Spartans' first-year coach. "With nine newcomers and five returners it's always interesting to see how the team chemistry develops and how each individual develops their skills."

The Spartans started the season 0-8, and it was evident it took a mental toll on the team. However, the team then went on a couple of winning streaks and midway through the season, they had a record of 12-14.

Quiggle said besides the team morale improving, the overall play of the girls had also improved.

"Being in the ICCAC Conference is tough on all teams," stated Quiggle. "Four teams in the conference are ranked in the top 20 in the nation, with a fifth team receiving votes, so conference competition is tough."

The Spartans not only had to battle a very challenging conference schedule, they also faced a daunting non-conference schedule including other nationally ranked teams such as Coffeyville and Highland, Kansas.

Quiggle said while the Spartans didn't win as many games as they would have liked, it was a good building season. Looking back at the season, Quiggle was able to point out plenty of positives and highlights.

"Losing to Southeast CC, in Beatrice, Nebraska, the first game of the season and then beating them at home midway through the season showed that the team had improved," explained Quiggle. "Beating Grand View's JV squad at Grand View was another highlight."

Individually, Perkins, Ashley Porter and Lyann Mena all had standout seasons. Quiggle said Perkins played very consistent throughout the season and showed leadership by her play on the court. Porter was the team captain and played at the setter position even though it's not her natural position. And Mena was a newcomer, but played solid defense throughout the season.

Winning and losing happens in all sports. Quiggle said it's not great to judge a season based on wins and losses. He believes the Spartan volleyball team worked hard and worked as a team throughout the season.

"While the results of the games may not have been the desired outcome," said Quiggle, "each individual grew as a person and the girls stuck together as a team. It was a good season building into the program."