The varsity volleyball team defeated St. James Academy in the Senior Night game Tuesday, 2-0 (25-15, 25-18). Prior to the game, the team held a ceremony recognizing seniors Mya King, Katie Dean, Hannah McCarthy, Morgan Lewis and Lizzy Young for their contributions to the Northwest program.

Head coach Molly Haggerty said after getting off to a rough start, the coaches and players discussed the teams level of play. Their discussions resulted in an increased intensity and focus for practices and games, leading to an 11 game winning streak.

“We really checked in and asked them ‘do you guys think you’re playing like a state champion team?’ and the answer was no, and we weren’t,” Haggerty said. “We’ve really amped up our practices, [and the girls] expectation levels for one another, what they are demanding from one another has stepped up.”

Senior Morgan Lewis said working through team chemistry issues and picking up the intensity all around led the team to be able to get the win against St. James, one of the top ranked teams in the state last year.

“Beating St. James is a really big game…[and] beating them is definitely a confidence boost, so we’re gonna keep that for later games,” Lewis said.

Lewis said it was sad for her knowing it was her final game played at BVNW.

“I’ve cried the past two years but knowing this is my last home match is just sad to think that I’ll never play another game on this court again,” Lewis said.

Haggerty said this senior class of girls was a special group to her and they have contributed a lot to the Northwest volleyball program in their four years at BVNW. She also said the fan support meant a lot to the team.

“It’s a special, special night to celebrate a great group of girls that have given so much to our program,” Haggerty said. “For them to have the crowd support, I know they really appreciate it, and the fans make such a difference when we get them here.”

With the win, the Huskies improved their record to 16-4 on the season. The team will be competing in a tournament at Lawrence High Oct. 1 for their next matches.