By Jeff Linder, The Gazette

For such a small team, the West Liberty Comets have a big, big dream. And theyre not afraid to share.

Molly Kelly was the first one to say it, said West Liberty Coach Ruben Galvan. After the way we played at summer camp and summer leagues, she said, This team has the potential to win a state championship.

That wont be determined for a couple months, but heres what we know now despite a lack of height, the Comets have backed down from nobody.

Class 3A ninth-rated West Liberty swept Wilton on Tuesday, improving to 12-0 overall, 2-0 in the River Valley Conference South Division. And the wins arent coming against schools its size.

The Comets claimed the title at the Muscatine Invitational tournament Saturday. Of their 12 wins, three have come against 5A foes, six against 4A teams.

Its not as if this comes as a surprise that are in volleyballs inner circle. More than one coach from the Wamac Conference mentioned before the season that the Comets were better than their ranking.

Now, about the height issue. West Liberty does not have a player taller than 5-foot-8. It hasnt presented a problem yet.

Weve been able to overcome it because we have a setter (Cassedi Simon) who is a threat herself, Galvan said. People have to focus on her, and it creates openings for other hitters.

Hailey Daufeldt leads the Comets with 3.46 kills per game, followed by Audra Bridenstine and Simon and 2.08 apiece. All three are juniors

Originally posted here:

Comets are short on height, high on hopes