Clinton volleyball tops district standings
Senior middle blocker Ellie Murrell goes up for a block during the Lady Dragons’ matchup against Powell on Tuesday, Sept. 3. (photo:Ellie Hatmaker )
The Lady Dragons are also chasing a second-straight tournament championship after winning their first in program history in 2023.
“Things are different for us now,” Clinton Coach Lorri Johnson said. “We have a target on our backs. We used to be chasing other people. Now, it’s important, but we want to get to that next level when we get to the region.”
The Lady Dragons defeated Knoxville Halls at home Thursday night, posting a four-set victory (25-17, 20-25, 25-13, 25-20).
Junior Josie Moody had a big night for Clinton, totaling seven kills, nine assists, seven digs, and one block.
Parker McGhee finished with six kills and seven blocks, and she also contributed a pair of service aces.
Earlier in the week, the Lady Dragons earned a four-set win over rival Oak Ridge at Wildcat Arena, notching a 25-19, 25-21, 25-21, 25-22 victory.
Clinton boasted a balanced hitting attack.
Lanee Carmichael had 13 kills, and Ellie Murrell added nine. McGhee tallied seven kills and two blocks, while Moody contributed six kills, two aces, 20 assists, and 17 digs.
Carmichael also recorded seven digs and two aces. McKenzie Crisp had 20 digs, while Keagan Skaggs added 12.
Clinton’s balanced attack has been a hallmark of the season.
“We have some power hitters, and they hit a high percentage,” Johnson said. “If you look at the Oak Ridge match, they were right there. They have a great libero and a great setter. They have some young hitters.”
Clinton hosted Bearden on Monday, and traveled to Cumberland County on Tuesday. Results were not available at press time.
The Lady Dragons return to district action when they travel to Campbell County on Thursday.