Ardrey Kell volleyball stops Butler, stays unbeaten, eyes title

Ardrey Kell’s volleyball team won a big Southwestern 4A conference game at Butler Tuesday, running its record to 18-0 overall, 11-0 in the conference.

It’s the Knights best start in school history and puts the team one game away from at least a share of the Southwestern 4A league championship. The Knights can lock that up Thursday at home against East Mecklenburg on Senior Night.

Ardrey Kell coach Zoe Bell said the key to her team’s season has been its ability to control the ball at all times and stay aggressive defensively. That’s set up by players like right side hitter Madison Wauchope, middle hitters Marshae Bradbury and Serena Jackson, who lead the team in blocks, and Caitlin Watkins and Rachel Eppley who lead the team in kills. Setting everybody up is Sarah Wyczawski.

“It’s a total team effort,” Bell said. “They’re learning that everybody has a part on this team, and the thing that gives us a chance is our ball control and when you can be offensive every time the ball comes over, it’s hard to beat.”

-- The Knights unbeaten season will be tested Saturday at Hough, during a non-conference match with regional powers Hough and Mount Tabor.

-- Here are photos from Tuesday night's match.