RESERVE — Head coach Brandi Melancon entered the 2018 volleyball season knowing it would be a challenging year for a young team still gaining its sea legs.

Sitting at 3-17, 1-4 in District as of Tuesday morning following a Monday night loss to Ponchatoula, the Lady Rebels have struggled to find consistency in offense and defense.

Their most defining trait, however, is their ability to fight to the end.

“It’s a young year in experience,” Melancon said. “That’s tough for any team to handle, but I’m proud that this  group of resilient ladies does not throw in the towel.

“We just need our ball control, passing and offense to come together in the second half of the season. We’re still trying to build that culture.”

There are moments when Melancon feels chills watching the girls compete. Some of the top gameplay of the season, according to Melancon, came after the Lady Rebels stole a 25-20 set from Dominican.

While the other sets ended in losses, it proved Riverside Academy could stand against a talented program.
According to Melancon, seniors Allie Jacob, Carli Hymel, Kate St. Pierre, Breanna Epperly and Kash’mir Foley have stepped into bigger roles by guiding the younger girls on the team.

The Lady Rebels play an away game against Louise McGehee at 5 p.m. today.