The MSU-Northern Skylights volleyball team got off to a great start to the 2024 season, winning three of four games against strong opponents last week at the Big Sky Challenge. New Media Broadcasters spoke with head coach Jerry Wagner and he said that despite the good performance, the momentum from the first game loss and subsequent three straight wins contributed to what was possible.
“The last tournament was full of anticipation,” Wagner said. “We played teams from New Orleans, Oregon and Arizona the first weekend,” Wagner said. “I wish we had gotten going a little earlier at some of the good times.”
“We really hit our stride the next two days and (I) couldn’t be happier,” Wagner continued. “Overall, it was a very good weekend and I felt like we improved on some areas in the first game that are definitely our strengths over time, we could potentially be (4-0).”
The Skylights had a player of the week for the Frontier Conference. Veteran middle blocker Alana Graves was named Attacker of the Week. Coach Wagner praised his star player, but also said her performance was a domino effect of the game-building during the tournament.
“A middle blocker like Alana Graves can’t achieve her ability without incredible passing, excellent passing and just the team cohesion that we’ve been able to build,” Wagner said. “(She’s) at her best every year and excels.”
“I can tell you story after story about how she was ready for this season and there is no question that she will achieve her goals and the team as well,” Wagner continued.
Northern now turns its attention to another tournament, albeit one with more teams participating. Coach Wagner described the challenges his team faces, but said the experience of playing two opponents on neutral ground in the past will be a factor in winning this weekend.
“We still have a lot of room to grow and we need to make sure we check ourselves every week to make sure we are improving,” Wagner said.
“Providence was able to attract a team from Arizona and a team from Washington and guys we know,” Wagner continued. “It was supposed to be a four-game weekend for us, but someone in Great Falls canceled, so we’re going to Providence to play those two.”
“These are people we know and they are extremely impressive teams,” Wagner said.
The MSU-Northern Skylights volleyball team will travel to Great Falls on Saturday to compete in the University of Providence tournament. Their first opponent is Ottawa University-Arizona at 11 a.m., followed by Evergreen State College at 3 p.m.
