Record-Breaking Season: Chattooga Volleyball’s Dual Setters Lead Lady Indians to 31 Wins

The most crucial position in volleyball is the setter. “The setter is the quarterback of volleyball”, said Chattooga Volleyball Head Coach Wes Maddux. This season Coach Maddux has elected to run a 6-2 offense. “The 6-2 offense allows us to run two setters, which gives us more offensive weapons and makes the defense have to account for 3 hitters at all times. ”

The changeover from a 5-1 to a 6-2 has benefited the Lady Indians.  The Indians have set a new school record for wins this year with 31. To run a 6-2, a team must have two talented and athletic individuals to make it work. Coach Maddux has those players in Juniors Aurora Ramirez and Madilyn Wheat.

Setters control the tempo of the offense. They have to make quick decisions and communicate with the hitters. Setters must be agile and display sharp reflexes. They have to get to the 2^nd ball wherever it is on the court. “We’ve had a couple positions open throughout the season, but the setter positions have been locked down the whole time. Maddie and Aurora have been staples in our lineup all season. This team’s record-breaking season would not have been possible without their contributions. Setting in my opinion is the hardest position to learn and play. We are fortunate to have two talented athletes there,” said Coach Maddux.

Wheat is a 3-year starter. She is a versatile player who excels at passing, setting, and hitting. “This is her first season primarily setting. She is a true example of what a team player looks like.” Currently, Wheat has 442 assists this season. Her career high was recorded against Haralson County with 22. She also leads the team in Aces with 77.

Ramirez is a 1^st year starter. She transferred to Chattooga her freshman year, so she wasn’t eligible for varsity last season until late September. She gained a lot of quality playing time setting for the JV last year. “She has taken advantage of her first varsity season and has played incredibly for us.” Ramirez currently has earned 322 Assists on the season with her career high coming against Ridgeland with 24.

“I am so proud of these two. They are great young ladies, straight A students and strong competitors.  With Haley on the verge of her unprecedented 500th kill for the season, it would not be possible without Maddie and Aurora putting the ball in position for her to swing. I’m glad to have them on my team, ” said Coach Maddux.

The Lady Indians will be back in action at home on Oct.15 for the 1^st Round of the State Playoffs.