New Kent Charles City Chronicle

News for New Kent County and Charles City County, Virginia | March 29, 2024

Carver Academy escapes in close contest against Charles City

By Robb Johnson | October 13, 2017 5:35 pm

Charles City’s Krystal Moody tips the ball over the net.

Robb Johnson photo

Charles City’s Lady Panthers struggled early in the Oct. 12 contest against Carver Academy. But in comparison to previous outings, it was a step in the right direction.

Despite falling in straight sets 9-25, 21-25, and 22-25 to the visiting Lady Wolverines, Charles City orchestrated their best performance of the year.

“This is a building block and we have to keep going back and emphasizing those little things that will continue to make this team grow,” said Lady Panther head coach Racene Otey.

After dropping the opening frame, the Lady Panthers came out inspired after the guests celebrated excessively in their opening set win. Behind Lady Panther Kourtney Wyatt’s three aces, Charles City jumped out on top 4-0. However, Carver clawed their way back into the game to a 20-20 deadlock. Crucial mistakes by the hosts resulted in the visitors stringing together a 5-1 run to close the set.

Both teams exchanged leads in set three, with each team hoping to earn win number one on the year. Charles City trailed 22-23 but faltered on errors down the stretch and dropped the match.

Despite the loss, Otey was pleased with the efforts and has a positive outlook on the future of the program.

“I was very encouraged but what I saw tonight,” she commented. “As a unit, we will build on this and keep everything positive and blocking out all the negatives.”

Charles City drops to 0-8 on the season.