Large crowds support Arlee

ARLEE — Homecoming or not, Arlee volleyball always has a loud crowd.

This can be good and bad for the Scarlets.

The good part is the support from the fans. The pep squad, as the student-fans are called, cheer and fill the gym with noise. If a certain number of students show up, there is an incentive.

The bad part is that it makes it hard for the Scarlets to communicate successfully.  Being heard over 20 yelling students can be tough.

Last Thursday, Arlee faced Charlo and lost 21-25, 25-10, 21-25, 17-25 in their homecoming match.

“Charlo’s a tough team,” head coach Brian Bigsam said. “We did pretty good.”

Arlee stepped up and won the second set with a lot of intensity.

“They just have to keep reminding themselves that they can do it,” Bigsam said. “We just need to keep that intensity.”

Communication is what needs to improve for the Scarlets as they have started to move their feet more.

“They don’t talk enough,” Bigsam said. “They need to call balls and make sure everyone can hear them. If they could just get that down.”

Sophomore setter Cortney Dix had nine kills, nine blocks and 15 assists while freshman Mahalia Hendren had some great plays that impressed Bigsam.

“She surprises herself,” he said. “She steps up when she gets in there.”

The Scarlets travel Two Eagle River tonight and host Noxon on Saturday.

“We are looking to get a win under our belt,” Bigsam said.