For the Mancos Bluejays volleyball team, the 2013 season proved to be a one of growth and development.
Even though the group did not win as many games as they would have liked, first year head coach Brittney Lang brought discipline and excitement to the program.
With a number of players returning next season, the future certainly looks bright for a Bluejays team that could contend for a league title in the near future.
EARLY WINS HIGHLIGHT SEASON
Although the Bluejays produced numerous memorable moments during the 2013 season, few were more memorable than the team's early season wins over tough foes.
The first came on Aug. 29 when the Bluejays traveled to Ridgway and delivered a shocking four set win, 25-20, 24-26, 25-22, 25-23.
The win was especially impressive considering the fact that Ridgway would go on to amass a 20-4 record, a district championship and a state tournament appearance.
"The girls were definitely nervous seeing (Ridgway) hit," said Brittney Lang. "We talked about what it takes to have hope and dig deep. We were so tenacious."
The second win came at home against Durango JV on Sept. 5 in a back and forth match that saw the Bluejays triumph, 25-20, 24-26, 25-22, 25-23.
"We all worked together," said Bluejays' senior Emily Funmaker. "When we have everybody here supporting us, it gives us energy. Everyone was loud and supportive."
LOSING STREAK, QUICK
EXIT AT DISTRICTS,
HAUNTS TEAM
The low point of the Bluejays' season came when the team suffered a 10-game losing streak that began on Sept. 17 against Ignacio and did not end until Oct. 17 with a win over Telluride.
A second low came in Mancos on Oct. 26 in the 2A District 3 Tournament. Kicking off the tournament, the Bluejays lost in four sets to Ridgway before bowing out of the tournament with a four-set loss to Telluride.
The Bluejays' quick exit was especially disappointing considering that the team had beaten Ridgway and Telluride earlier in the year.
A BRIGHT FUTURE
AHEAD
Looking ahead to the 2014 season, all indications are that the Bluejays will be very competitive.
Although Brandi Bundy and Emily Funmaker will graduate, key hitters Courtney Colyer and Taryn Gordanier will return. Also returning will be defensive specialist Jessica Wilburn and setters Nicole Hess and Jessica Gutierrez.
With so many returning players and a head coach intent on improving the team's standing, 2014 promises to be an exciting year for the Bluejays volleyball team.