Hidden Gems Among Younger Lady Tigers

PRAIRIE GROVE JUNIOR HIGH VOLLEYBALL WIELDS POTENTIAL

PRAIRIE GROVE — Hidden gems in Prairie Grove’s volleyball program disquised as beginners spark coach Mat Stewart’s dream of forging a diamond in the rough.

Forty girls are out for seventh-grade volleyball. Stewart is not only thrillled with the numbers, but also likes the desire to learn the game exhibited during practice.

“We have got some really good seventh-grade athletes,” Stewart said. “I’m excited about that group. This is their first time playing volleyball since we don’t do volleyball before seventh grade. They remind me of our ninth-grade class. They are ready to learn.” Coach Celebrates Home

Stewart, who came over to Prairie Grove last season after coaching girls basketball at Shiloh Christian for several seasons, has settled in.

“I love it. We moved here to Prairie Grove. This is home for sure,” Stewart said. “Prairie Grove has made us feel like it is home.”

Stewart’s dream to take the program to a level where the Lady Tigers habitually contend for conference championships, regional and state tournament berths is dancing in his head like visions of sugar plumbs as he considers the future potential.

“We want to be consistent and be good every year,” Stewart said, while describing a capable junior high team.

Five of six starters are back from a team that finished third in the conference last season. Stewart is optimistic about their ability to improve on last season’s achievements.

“I hope we have a good year with them,” he said.

MARK HUMPHREY ENTERPRISE-LEADER Prairie Grove seventh-graders (from left): Rhiannon Umfleet, Kenleigh Elder, and Kendall Pickett are part of a large class of 40 out for Lady Tiger volleyball.