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As the Broadneck volleyball team exited the court following their straight set win over Crofton in the 4A state quarterfinals on Friday, there was a celebration to commemorate their final game on the home floor this season.
But the celebration was muted, like they knew they still have more to do.
Behind a punishing attack and an equally tough service game, Broadneck advanced with a 25-12, 25-23, 25-14 win.
Kennedy Smith led the team with 14 kills, including a thumping, crowd-stoking smash inside the 10-foot line. Anna Graves also had 10 kills to help pace the attack, but the real teeth of Broadneck’s push came from the service line.
The Bruins went into double figures in service aces and put Crofton’s serve receive under pressure all evening long by serving deep into Crofton’s half of the court, and with pace.
“We always have a game plan, no matter who the opponent or how good they are,” said Broadneck coach Tracey Realbuto. “We’ve been working really hard on serving aggressively, and it was nice to see that work well tonight.”
Perhaps nobody encapsulated the all-action effort for Broadneck better than middle blocker Addison Sladky. The senior middle took charge in the second set, making two quick-fire blocks — one conventional, the other with her head and not her arms — and following that up with a kill.
“Whatever works,” Sladky quipped. “It’s great to get a chance to help the offense, and because that confuses the defense more when they have middles and outsides. It was really important to us to do well on the home floor and keep it going.”
Barrett Bolter had a double-double with 13 assists and 12 digs.
Broadneck next plays Tuesday against Perry Hall in the state semifinals. That match will be played at Paint Branch High School.
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