Lady Trojans Spike Watkins Mill to Remain Undefeated

Article by Brandy Simms; photos by Robert Huttenlocker

In Monday’s battle of crosstown rivals, Gaithersburg girls' volleyball team held off visiting Watkins Mill in four sets, 25-16, 20-25, 25-18, 25-14 to keep their unbeaten season in tact, while the Wolverines lost their fourth consecutive match.

The schools' proximity and past successes on the court have made the match-up a natural rivalry—even if it doesn't have some of the bite or previous years.

"It’s gone down a little bit because their volleyball program has stayed a little bit higher," said Jody Tyler, coach and former player at Watkins Mill, "but it’s fun to come here. It’s nice because they know each other and they play on the same travel teams and that sort of thing."

In Monday’s match, Gaithersburg (4-0) was led by standout performances from various players including Mackenzie Cockerill, Kelly Donnellan, Haley Duff, Ashlie DeCarlo, Mychal Walker and Kelly Mason among others. The Lady Trojans have also been aided this season by the addition of Arizona transplant Lexi Corral, a middle hitter.

"She’s been contributing pretty well," said Gaithersburg head coach Michele Staymates. "[She’s] pretty consistent."

Gaithersburg senior Octavia Scott, who helped guide the Lady Trojans girls’ basketball team to the 4A state title earlier this year, has been sidelined this fall after having tonsil surgery but is expected to be back in the lineup sometime this season.

"She’ll be OK," said Staymates. "We’ll get her up and running soon."

A 2005 4A state title banner hangs on the wall in the Gaithersburg gymnasium. The Lady Trojans would certainly like to add another one.

"We lack a little bit of size and some power and finesse," said Staymates, "but defense is going to be our claim to fame this year."

Watkins Mill (0-4) was led by Andrea Falcon, Millie Pryphun, Caroline Hanson, Josepha Mbouma and Janessa Fauntroy but at times struggled against the talented Lady Trojans.

"We haven’t had a very easy opening schedule," said Tyler. "The first four games have all been tough games."