CARTHAGE - Bradyn Webb's first season at the helm of the Carthage Tigers concluded with Wednesday's loss to Joplin 22-25, 20-25,22-25.
"It's really hard to lose, especially like that," Webb said. "I don't think we played our best. I know this was their first season with me, so it's been a big change for them. It's nice to see when I go in there they're upset. They're not OK with losing, and that makes a statement for next year. I have a lot of returners who are hungry to win."
Webb also gave Joplin credit.
"I think that was a great game they just played," Webb said. "We made a lot of unforced errors and they made hardly any. That's the best I've seen them play. Staci has done a great job with them."
Carthage's seniors are Black, Rylee Anderson and Grace Schriever, who missed the match after having to quarantine. The Tigers (15-14-1) will return a solid core next fall. 
For Carthage, junior Sydnee Dudolski had 19 digs and 11 kills to lead the Tigers, while Black handed out 17 assists and junior Olivia Bourgault recorded 22 digs. 
"My first season has been great," Webb said. "We've made strides since our first game. We played our best against Ozark and Nixa. Moving forward, I told those kids to remember this feeling because that can push you and make you better for next year." 
-Jason Peake, SoMo Sports