Columbus East High School

The Columbus East volleyball team welcomed one of the state's elite programs to the Orange Pit on Tuesday evening, going toe-to-toe with Class 3A No. 1 and overall state No. 10 Providence. While the visitors ultimately secured a straight-set victory (25-16, 25-22, 25-18), the Olympians provided plenty of resistance, notably pushing the top-ranked Pioneers to the wire in a high-intensity second frame. Providence set the tempo early to claim the opening set, but Columbus East refused to back down. Channeling the energy of their home court, the Olympians elevated their net play and defensive intensity in set two, trading side-outs with the Pioneers and forcing Providence into tight late-game execution before the visitors edged out a 25-22 win. Providence then closed out the match in the third set to keep their top-tier state resume intact. Despite the setback, several Olympians turned in standout performances against prime competition: Kadence Miller anchored the backline with a team-high 17 digs alongside a service ace. Addy Dean spearheaded the attack with 13 kills while contributing 9 digs on defense. Ava Tartt bolstered the backcourt defense, digging out 12 attacks. Kenlee Gault and Jillian Chapple seamlessly directed the offense, dishing out 12 and 9 assists, respectively. Chapple also added 3 blocks at the net. Emma Armstrong posted a team-best 4 blocks to go along with 3 kills. Cadence Smith delivered key offensive touches with 5 kills, while Bailey Rohde added 2 blocks to round out the defensive front. The Olympians welcome another quality opponent to the Orange Pit on Thursday, September 24th, when they receive a visit from the Floyd Central Highlanders. The Highlanders currently sit at #11 in the overall rankings and 10th in the 4A rankings. This Hoosier Hills Conference clash will begin at 7:30 p.m.