Ozaukee volleyball learned quickly

The record may not have shown it, but the Ozaukee High School volleyball team put in the work this season.

The Warriors went 2-5 in the Big East Conference and 3-14 overall before their first round playoff game was forfeited due to Covid-19.

“Overall as our first season together, I saw a 100% effort from nearly all the girls every day,” first-year coach Vanessa Depies said.

“Per the circumstances, we had to find a way to make the most of each day because we never knew when it would be our last.”

Several players had impressive seasons.

Nicole Liermann, who switched from libero to setter this year, racked up 255 assists. She was second in aces with 12 and third in digs with 98.

“Nicole Liermann was a standout player who learned a new position quickly and adjusted to her new role as we ran a 5-1 throughout the season,” Depies said.

Statistically, the Warriors were led by Sydnie Stadler, who accumulated all-time records for the program in kills, aces and digs.

During her senior season, Stadler led the team in kills with 149 and aces with 24. She was second in digs with 152.

“Senior standout Sydnie Stadler continued to have a large role on the team and made an impact throughout our season in various categories,” Depies said.

Evy Gies led the team in solo blocks with 33 and was second in kills with 69.

Libero Madison Karmasin recorded 191 digs to lead Ozaukee’s defense.

Hannah Lemke was third in both kills with 45 and aces with 12.

Those who didn’t show up on the stat sheet were also important.

“Marisa Schmit was our team cheerleader who always was looking to bring positivity to our team no matter the situation or the role she had that game. She also was put into various situations quickly during games, and took on the role in stride and her impact could be felt,” Depies said.

Among the conference opponents was Howards Grove, which again won a state title.

“This season we battled some very tough and highly-ranked teams. I believe those games made us stronger for our other matches. The girls also had some long matches as we went five sets two times, had multiple tournaments and quads and crammed four matches into one week,” Depies said.

“With such a short season, we had to learn and grow quickly together. The changes this season were something we had to get used to, although once we did, it seemed like the normal routine.

Road games presented a different challenge each match.

“Traveling to other schools and following their game day procedures were the only thing we had to learn each time. Otherwise, we were able to adapt quickly and get out on the court. Our team was also extremely lucky to have made it as far as we did with our feeling any pressures from Covid-19,” Depies said.

The Warriors earned a No. 5 seed in the Division 3 playoffs but didn’t play at No. 4-seeded Dodgeland because too many team members were out due to contact tracing.

“It’s heartbreaking but it’s us living in a pandemic,” Depies said.

She said she is thankful that Ozaukee Athletic Director Andy McKee provided as many opportunities to play as he could.

“Overall, it was a learning year for everyone, whether it be the new coaching staff at all three levels, players taking on new roles or the Covid-19 precautions. It still was a fun and exciting year and we can’t wait to be back on the court next fall,” Depies said.