Western tops Kokomo in volleyball action

Panthers prevail in five-set varsity showdown; JV teams face off

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The Western Lady Panthers started their 2024 volleyball season off right with a win over country rivals the Kokomo Lady Wildkats on Aug. 15, taking the match, three sets to two.

Western opened its season with a 3-0 shutout of Lafayette Jefferson three days earlier, showing that the Lady Panthers will be a force on the floor this year.

Against Kokomo, the Lady Panthers took the first two sets of the match and look to deliver a second consecutive shutout. But the Lady Kats had more game in them, taking the next two sets to force a fifth and deciding frame.

Western answered the call to prevail, 15-10, in the final set.

Kokomo did experience some highlights, as Regan McClain registered 17 kills and seven blocks in the match. Dani Tate added 13 kills and 14 digs, while Mia Federspill had 12 kills. Torre Willis was the Lady Wildkats’ top setter with 27 assists.

Taylor Reed topped Kokomo’s defensive effort with 31 digs. Tia Williams had 23 digs in the match, and Kinley Martin added 22 digs.

See more photos of this contest, as well as photos from the junior varsity contest between the two schools, on the Kokomo Lantern website or its Facebook page and group.