The Grace Christian Academy Lady Cougars Volleyball team took home a victory after winning three sets against Covenant Christian in Loganville, Ga. for the first round of state playoffs Tuesday afternoon.

While the game was a team effort, junior captain Abby Mills had a lot of kills, which helped claim the victory of 25-9, 25-3 and 25-11.

We had a close call Saturday, so for this game we worked on playing like a team, staying focused and covering the tips at the net,” Coach Marti McRae said. Coach Rhonda Wells agreed saying they played cohesively this game.

Team captains, Pooja Patel and Mills noticed the team coming together as well. They attributed their win to team communication and working together as a team.

Although the team put on a strong front, both captains and coaches were nervous before the game, especially with Mills’ shoulder injured. However, with the win now under their belt, they now feel more confident.

“The key is to stay humble,” Mills said.

McRae and Wells agreed saying they wish the state semi-finals would go as well as Tuesday’s game did.

Mills hopes in the state semi- finals the team will play as hard as they did Tuesday. One thing the team can count on in for Mills and Patel to continue to serve aces. The two girls have played the longest of anyone on the team and step up to the challenge when it comes to serving.

They said while it’s scary and intimidating for others serving is one of their favorite parts of the game, and they can’t wait to bring their serves to Lilburn on Saturday.

GCA will play Saturday in Lilburn, Ga., for the state semi-finals.