Four consecutive appearances in the UIL state tournament and after winning the whole thing last season, the Gunter Lady Tigers are back on the biggest stage in Texas high school volleyball. Geared up and ready to give it everything they have in the UIL Class 3A State Semifinals, Gunter is braced for Columbus. VYPE DFW takes a look at Gunter's season so far, how they got here, and what fans can expect in this Thursday morning semifinal matchup!
Regular Season Play
Gunter has remained steady and focused since winning the state championship trophy last season. Entering this season poised and dominant, the Lady Tigers recorded a five-game win streak to start their season on the right foot. Despite 11 losses in non-district play, Gunter showcased tremendous power on the court derived from their ability to read their opponents and respond as a unit. The team defeated the likes of Frisco Lone Star, Frisco, Frisco Independence, China Spring, Hutto, and more before opening their district schedule.
Once district play began, there was no turning back for the Lady Tigers. Posting an incredible, undefeated district record (12-0), Gunter shut out 11 of their 12 district opponents and dropped only one set in district play during a 3-1 victory over Celina. Led by Avery Hale, Grace Dainauski, Berkeley Caple, Brelee Mauldin, Makena Fady, and other talented athletes, Gunter posted huge victories over Howe, Bonham, Leonard, Pottsboro, and more through district securing a first-place finish in their district standings, and another entry into the playoffs.
Playoffs So Far
Throughout five playoff games, Gunter has shut out four opponents (Pattonville Prairiland, Edgewood, White Oak, and Ponder). The other victory came in a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Boyd. Battling through tough moments and showcasing excellent resiliency, Gunter has proven that they have what it takes to get back to this stage of volleyball. Having outscored their opponents in sets by a combined 93-33, Gunter is as ready as ever to enter the state semifinal matchup on a high note.
What To Expect
Gunter is meticulous in their play on the court. Noticing every move their opponent attempts to make, the game IQ is high for the Lady Tigers. Fans can expect this team to truly put in the work and play hard against Columbus. Columbus (43-5, 14-0) is going to be challenging for the Lady Tigers. Respected in their district with athletes like Ally Tribe, Ember Mandola, Gracie Schobel, Claire Klausmeyer, and more, Columbus is in their sixth state tournament appearance, third in three seasons and hungry for a victory.
Fans can expect this to be a high-energy match with a lot of big plays on the court. Be sure to check out all the action. Play begins at 11 a.m. at the Curtis Culwell Center in Garland, Texas.