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Ace Nation: Alexander rebounds with a compelling three-set victory over Federal Hocking

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ALBANY, Ohio (WOUB) — The Alexander Spartans completed a three-set sweep over the Federal Hocking Lancers in their home opener. 

Alexander entered Tuesday’s match coming off a four-set loss to Gallia Academy on Saturday, while Federal Hocking was coming off a tight five-set loss the same day. 

Head coach Lauren Hill noted, “Coming off of Saturday’s loss, there was a positive feeling in the locker room. We knew we had a chip on our shoulder and we have so much potential and room to grow until we can meet the goals we set as a team.” 

The Spartans came out hot, dominating the court with powerful swings and building an early 7–3 lead off a hammering kill from senior Lisa Moser. Alexander carried that momentum to a commanding 24–13 advantage before the Lancers strung together a late five-point run. The push wasn’t enough, as the Spartans closed the door to take the first set 25–18. 

Alexander senior Meena Juedes set the tone early with three explosive kills, quickly erasing the Lancers’ momentum and sparking a 4–1 lead. The Spartans then took full control, dominating with an 11–2 run and refusing to be outperformed on their home court. Juedes highlighted the run with an ace painted into the corner, sealing a 25–15 victory and a commanding two-set lead. 

Spartan Meena Juedes celebrates a kill with her teammates
Spartan Meena Juedes celebrates a kill with her teammates [Jillian Sanders | WOUB Public Media]
Juedes spoke on the seniors’ goals for this team, “We are trying to be better role models and leave a strong culture for years to come.” 

Going into the third set, both teams had some unorganized play, resulting in a tight 9–8 score. Out of the shadows came Juedes with a monstrous block, rallying the Spartans for a final push. The Lancers weren’t going to leave without a fight, as junior Karlee Grimm hammered down an overpass kill to tighten the score to 13–12. In the end, the might of the Spartans was too much when Moser sent a thunderous kill that eliminated the Lancers’ confidence. Alexander closed out the third set 25–19 to secure the sweep. 

The Alexander Spartans look to continue this energy into their next game on Thursday against The Jackson Ironladies, while the Federal Hocking Lancers will try to rebound against the Belpre Golden Eagles on Thursday.