The Johns Creek High School volleyball team opened region play in impressive fashion
Tuesday, August 18, securing a commanding 3–1 victory over Lanier High School on their
home court.
The Gladiators came out strong from the opening serve, bringing energy, confidence, and
determination to the court. Johns Creek quickly established control of the match, taking
the first two sets easily with scores of 25–11 and 25–16, respectively. With strong execution
and steady play, the team built early momentum and put Lanier on the defensive.
The third set brought a noticeable change in momentum. After commanding the first two
sets, Johns Creek let its guard down and gave Lanier an opening to build confidence and
establish its rhythm. Lanier seized the opportunity, battling back to take the set, 25–21.
Coach Scott viewed the setback as an important learning moment for the team, noting,
“We dropped the third set because we got comfortable and complacent with our
competition. I think the girls learned a valuable lesson that sustained focus and
competitive intensity are essential from the first point to the last.” The loss was a timely
reminder that success requires discipline and intensity throughout the entire match,
regardless of the score, and set the stage for a strong response in the fourth.
Refocused and determined, Johns Creek returned to the court for the fourth set with
renewed energy and quickly regained control of the match. The team settled back into its
rhythm, executed with confidence, and closed out the fourth set 25–13 to secure the
victory.
Johns Creek was led offensively by Sara Buoni with 16 kills and Hana Catic with 14 kills. Jia
Kim orchestrated the offense with 26 assists and added five aces from the service line.
Catic also posted a 2.28 serve-receive rating and recorded 10 digs, while Evie Sinotte
contributed a 2.00 serve-receive rating. Caroline Giles added nine digs, with Charlize
Maldonado and Emerson Jarboe each contributing six.
Beyond the statistics, the match showcased the team's ability to respond to adversity and
regain its focus when challenged. The third set served as a valuable reminder that every
opponent deserves the same level of preparation, intensity, and respect, regardless of the
score. Johns Creek answered that challenge by returning to its fundamentals, raising its
level of focus, and finishing the match with confidence.
