By Ken Lay
Central High School continued its magical 2026 season Thursday night with a District 3-3A sweep at home.
The Lady Bobcats (23-1, 10-0 District 3-3A) had a quick evening on the volleyball court) as they swept Gibbs, 25-12, 25-12, 25-15, to close out the week in Fountain City.
“We took care of business,” Central coach Susan Davidson. “(Gibbs coach) Holly (Walker) does a great job over there. They’re growing.”
The Lady Eagles started fast, opening a 4-2 lead in the opening set, but Central simply had too much firepower as it served its way to a big win.
“Our serving was really tough tonight. Our girls did a great job and we’re doing some special things over here,” Davidson said.
The Lady Bobcats have dominated in league play this season as they’ve dropped just one set in their 10 district matches, but they’ll face a pair of tough road matches as they travel to Oak Ridge on Tuesday before playing at Anderson County Thursday night.
It was a big week for Central setter Pyper Clevinger, who recorded her 1,000th career assist in a win over Campbell County. The Lady Bobcats swept the Lady Cougars, 25-9, 25-8, 25-12 at home Tuesday night.
“Pyper does a great job because we don’t give her the best passes,” Davidson said.
Ally Bryant, a senior who notched her 1,000th career kill earlier this season, led a balanced hitting attack for the Lady Bobcats as she had 15 kills against the Lady Eagles. Malia Moore added eight kills, while Kaylin Wiley added nine kills and five service aces. Trinity Brooks totaled four kills on the night.
Central’s service game got a boost from Jolie Sheddan, who keyed several key scoring runs.
“Jolie had a key service run,” Davidson said. “She came off the bench like she always does and her serve is really tricky.”
Like Davidson, Bryant said she feels that the 2026 Central squad is in the midst of a special season.
“When we make a mistake, our teammates, my teammates, always help us to become better and excel,” Bryant said. “They make us better players and better teammates.”
