Volleyball team focuses on regional playoff spot as second half of conference play underway

Hill College’s volleyball team remains in playoff contention after finishing the first round of conference play in a tight race among a very talented and competitive group of North Texas Junior College Athletic Conference (NTJCAC) student-athletes.

First-year head coach Haley Buard remains optimistic as the Rebels continue to be in a battle for one of four regional tournament playoff spots at the end of the season.

“As we continue into conference play, our volleyball team is eager and ready to face the competition within our region,” Buard said. “I am very excited to see my team battle these next few weeks.”

After falling 3-0 to Weatherford College (ranked No. 6 in the nation) on Oct. 9, Hill College (13-10 overall; 4-4 conference) began the second half of conference play with an impressive 3-1 road win over Cisco College.

“We took a tough loss against Vernon toward the end of the first round of play,” Buard said, “but it only fueled our determination to improve and bring our best to the court. We’ve been working hard, and the team is focused and prepared for the matches ahead.”

“Thank you to our supporters for standing by us through every victory and setback – we’re ready to battle for every point,” she added.

Besides Weatherford College sitting atop the NTJCAC standings, five of the remaining schools are potentially fighting for the remaining three regional playoff spots.

“Our team is fully aware of the challenges ahead as we fight for a spot in the region tournament,” Buard said. “It will take an immense amount of hard work, dedication and focus from each player to reach our goal. We know who we are up against, and we understand the level of intensity and effort it takes to win. I believe my team is capable of winning and being successful with the players that we have.

Although Hill College had an impressive home stand during the first round of conference play, six of its final eight games are on the road.

Sophomore Mina Petrovic (Belgrade, Serbia) leads the team so far this season scoring 339.5 points, including 275 kills (averaging 3.44 kills per set).

Hill College’s remaining two home games are Temple College (Oct. 26) and Weatherford College (Nov. 2).

“This journey will test us, but we are committed to giving everything we have in practice and in every match,” Buard said. “Our sights are set on making it to the tournament, and we’re prepared to face the battles that lie ahead. With relentless determination, we aim to earn our place among the top teams in the region.”

For more information on the Hill College volleyball program, please visit https://hillcollegeathletics.com.