HOOD RIVER — The Hood River Valley girls volleyball team lost 3-0 to the Pendleton High Buckaroos at home on Oct. 1, after a long few weekends of tournament play and games on the road.
The Eagles started strong in the first set and stayed just behind the Buckaroos, gaining a little momentum toward the end, but not enough to take the set. Junior Honey Wampler Bryan was notable through the first set, proving herself as a dynamic front and back row player.
After the 25-16 first-set loss, Hood River’s energy was at its peak, staying ahead of the Buckaroos and keeping steady under pressure until the last few points. Pendleton, 10-9 overall and ranked 14th in Class 4A, won 25-18.
Junior Emma Malley said: “I think we fought hard against a team that is really good … we definitely came back stronger since our last game.”
The Eagles’ last game was a 3-0 loss at St. Helens High School, and the game before a 3-0 sweep against the Parkrose Broncos.
The Pendleton match ended in the third set, 25-17, however the Eagles displayed perseverance and determination by not losing their focus. Senior Addi Van Metre and junior libero Lylah Hunter showed strength and composure on the court, setting the precedent for the team.
Hood River entered this week 5-9 overall and 3-3 in the Northwest Oregon Conference. They play the top two teams in league — Sandy and Centennial — Oct. 7 and 13 at home.
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