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"After tonight's game, it's quite obvious that the team needs some restructuring with the basics of the game," Elk Rapids coach Shawn Barrera-Leaf said. "I truly believe that there is an abundance of talent on this team, and I can sympathize with the girls' frustration. The key to winning is demonstrating leadership and team chemistry to fight for and win each point.

"The girls are tough and they can get past this."

Kelsey Hawkins led the Lady Elks with three digs, one kill and one block. Cat Orschel contributed with two aces and one kill while Mary Stroh and Abbie Fosdick chipped in with two assists each. Kate Hicks was 100 percent serving.

TCSF 3, ER 0
Traverse City St. Francis defeated Elk Rapids, 25-7, 25-15, 26-24, on Thursday, Jan. 25.

Hawkins (four digs, three kills), Orschel (five kills, one block), Kaitlyn VanDeusen (four digs, two kills), Nicole Thelen (three kills, two blocks), Stroh (100 percent serving, seven assists) and Britni Veeder (100 percent serving, one kill) paced the Lady Elks.

"The team really wanted to play well against St. Francis," Barrera-Leaf said. "Although we started out slow, the third game highlighted an aggressive offense and a smart defense to really challenge their opponent. These moments are victories for this team.

"They are working so hard to establish their team chemistry."

Elk Rapids hosts Grayling on Thursday, Feb. 1 and travels to East Jordan on Monday, Feb. 5.