Lady Tiger spikers triumph in two sets over Monett on Dig Pink Night

Several Nevada Lady Tiger players celebrate after a key play in the second set Thursday night.

Matt Resnick | Daily Mail

The Nevada Lady Tiger volleyball team dispatched the visiting Monett Lady Cubs in a quick two-set match Thursday, on the school’s annual “Dig Pink Night” at Wynn Gym.

Nevada, donning pink jerseys, took the first set in decisive fashion, 25-10, and then put away the visitors with a 25-20 second-set triumph.

Nevada (13-4, 2-0 Big 8 West) was led by Hailey Jackson’s 13 digs, Adrian Bond’s 11 kills, and Lindy Smith’s seven digs and four aces.

“Overall, we took care of business,” said Nevada head coach Ashley Thoreson. “But it probably wasn’t our best performance.”

Added Thoreson of the Dig Pink Night festivities: “We had a great crowd tonight. We talk about trying to bring a lot of energy onto the court, and we’re working on that energy. We just kind of tend to relax a lot, especially in that second set. But we got the win tonight, and to do it all for a good cause made it extra special.”

Lady Tiger senior middle hitter Sydney Ernsbarger goes up for a kill in the second set.

Matt Resnick | Daily Mail

Continued Thoreson: “It was such a good turnout, a lot of support, and hopefully a lot of money raised.”

Thoreson said Dig Pink Night, an event to support breast cancer awareness, is a special night for all involved.

“We’ve done this since I’ve been here, and probably before as well,” said the veteran head coach, adding that the money raised went to local entities. “That makes it that much more special for us and the girls. And with everyone wearing their pink shirts made it fun and very meaningful. “

Nevada High School’s student-section, donning “Dig for a Cure” attire, bring passion and energy to Thursday night’s festivities at Wynn Gymnasium. “The student-section was awesome tonight,” said Nevada head volleyball coach Ashley Thoreson. “I told the girls to go over and thank them after the match. They were cheering and into it tonight.”

Matt Resnick | Daily Mail

Prior to Thursday’s match, the Lady Tiger spikers were in Seneca on Monday in a Big 8 Conference West division showdown — escaping the road-match with a three-set 18-25, 25-13, 25-22 comeback victory.

Lady Tiger stat leaders included Jackson, as the senior setter registered 28 assists and four aces; senior middle hitter Sydney Ernsbarger, tallying 13 kills and a pair of blocks; and junior defensive specialist Lani Coonrod (15 digs).

Nevada’s junior varsity spikers meanwhile, downed Monett in two sets Thursday night — 25-17, 25-17, improving to 9-7.

Dig Pink Night is an annual event held by Nevada R-5 in relation to breast cancer awareness. All proceeds from the event, which include sales of Dig for a Cure T-shirts and hoodies, go to Vernon County Cancer Relief, according to Jamie Vantellman.

Matt Resnick | Daily Mail