Hard hitters — The San Benito Lady Greyhounds celebrate near the net following a point that was made off a kill during a match against non-district foe, the PSJA Lady Bears, at Veterans Memorial Academy. (Courtesy photo/Albert Villegas)
By ALBERT VILLEGAS
Special to the NEWS
As the calendar moves into mid-September, the San Benito Lady Greyhounds are approaching the end of the pre-district part of their schedule and will soon play more critical matches.
Competing in two tournaments was a great experience, and winning more to prepare for District 32-6A is the main reason Head Coach Ruby Medina keeps her players focused on the big picture.
We’re finding our rhythm as the season moves into district competition; this team has demonstrated resilience and a strong work ethic that’s preparing them for upcoming challenges,” Coach Medina said.
“Every day in practice, they’re pushing each other to improve.”
After a busy stretch of tournament play, Medina’s bunch holds an 11–10 overall record.
Coach commends players
A “dominant force” is the word Coach Medina uses to describe middle blocker Genesis Meza’s presence at the net.
Medina said thus far, Meza is pacing the offense with 124 kills, 15 solo blocks, and 25 aces. Her consistency has set the tone for the team’s balanced attack, she said.
Medina said teammate Annalise Rodriguez has showcased her versatility on both offense and defense.
Medina noted Rodriguez is boosting the team’s firepower as the outside hitter. She has recorded 59 kills, 125 digs, 41 aces, and a solo block.
Middle hitter Kalista Olivares has contributed 53 kills and seven blocks, while outside hitter Hayden Rodriguez anchors the back row with 179 digs alongside 31 kills and 21 aces, Medina said.
Medina went on to add, “The dynamic duo of Valeria Enriquez and Jayla Delgado has played a key role in operating our offense.”
The duo leads in digs by far, which gives the team more opportunities at points.
Enriquez has posted 81 digs, 37 kills, and 13 aces, while Delgado has added 83 digs, eight kills, and 16 aces.
Libero Alexa Perea isn’t far behind in digs, with 78 earned in this category.
Medina said Perea provides stability in the backcourt with 10 service aces earned. Rounding out the Lady ‘Hounds’ attack is outside hitter Isabella Gonzalez (two kills, 32 digs, and six aces).
Coach Medina credits not only the starters but also the depth of the roster — seniors and underclassmen alike.
Lauren de la Rosa, Camila Guajardo, Lieanni Allen, and sophomore Lori Martinez continue to bring energy and strong play off the bench,” Medina said.
Coach feels her Lady ‘Hounds will continue fine-tuning their game in non-district action.
San Benito hosted Weslaco on Tuesday.
But Medina said all eyes will shift to district play, where the Lady Greyhounds will start on the road against the Brownsville Hanna Lady Eagles next Tuesday, Sept. 23, at 6:30 p.m.
“With their balance of firepower, defensive grit, and team chemistry, our team is determined to make noise this season in district,” Medina said.
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