MADISON - The Monroe Cheesemakers knew they wouldn't have to wait long to find out how they match up with the best of the Badger South Conference.
Monroe opened their 2010 season Thursday against defending conference champion, Madison Edgewood and lost in three sets, 25-16, 25-12, 25-16.
"As a whole, we kept the ball in play, but it was a tough opener," said Dave Gersbach, Monroe head coach.
Senior outside hitter Jaclyn Ditter had nine digs and two kills and sophomore Becca Armstrong had two blocks for the Cheesemakers. Senior Sarah Kloepping dropped in two aces and junior Kirstie Hinojosa set up her teammates with 14 assists. Still, the Cheesemakers had their hands full trying to stop Edgewood's Ashley Ring, one of the best players in the state.
"Our game plan against her was to take away her cross-angle attack and force her to take an uncomfortable line shot, which did cause her to have several hitting errors," Gersbach said. "We played strong defensively, but it was hard to get the ball to hit the floor against them. They have four starters who have played together since their freshman year."
The Cheesemakers will host the Monroe Invitational Saturday, which will include Madison West, Wisconsin Heights, Royall, Reedsburg and Richland Center. Match action begins at 9 a.m.
Monroe opened their 2010 season Thursday against defending conference champion, Madison Edgewood and lost in three sets, 25-16, 25-12, 25-16.
"As a whole, we kept the ball in play, but it was a tough opener," said Dave Gersbach, Monroe head coach.
Senior outside hitter Jaclyn Ditter had nine digs and two kills and sophomore Becca Armstrong had two blocks for the Cheesemakers. Senior Sarah Kloepping dropped in two aces and junior Kirstie Hinojosa set up her teammates with 14 assists. Still, the Cheesemakers had their hands full trying to stop Edgewood's Ashley Ring, one of the best players in the state.
"Our game plan against her was to take away her cross-angle attack and force her to take an uncomfortable line shot, which did cause her to have several hitting errors," Gersbach said. "We played strong defensively, but it was hard to get the ball to hit the floor against them. They have four starters who have played together since their freshman year."
The Cheesemakers will host the Monroe Invitational Saturday, which will include Madison West, Wisconsin Heights, Royall, Reedsburg and Richland Center. Match action begins at 9 a.m.
