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E-mail This StorySize wise, neither Jenna Miller or Lyndi Johnson strike fear into opponents on the volleyball court. But when things are working right they can be an imposing duo for Marcus.
Miller, a setter, and Johnson, an outside hitter, are two of the major factors why Marcus is making its second consecutive post-season appearance.
The Lady Marauders (32-10) open the playoffs at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday against Justin Northwest (20-13) in a Class 5A Region I bi-district playoff match at Colleyville Heritage high school.
Last season, Marcus, won the District 6-5A title, then lost to Arlington Martin in four games in the area round of the playoffs.
“I still remember the way I felt that night,” said Miller, a senior. “It was a terrible feeling. But at the same time, I was glad I’d have a chance to come back and help take this team further in the playoffs.”
“I don’t want to have things end the way they did for last years seniors. There is no second chance for us this year. This is when we need to make it happen,” she said.
Johnson, a junior, who saw playing time last season said the team won’t be satisfied this season if they don’t reach the regional tournament. Marcus last reached the regional tournament in 1995.
Marcus’ offense starts with Miller, who is the team-leader in assists. The Lady Marauders scrambling style on defense that keeps balls from hitting the court also lead to seemingly errant passes that Miller consistently turns into top-notch sets.
“All of her sets are great,” Johnson said. “Sometimes, I wonder how she gets the ball up at times, considering the shanked (pass) she has to work with.”
Miller admits that sometimes it is difficult to get a set up but she reveals it’s really not that hard.
“My opinion is they make things really easy for me,” Miller said. “I like being a setter, because I’m not that good at hitting. As a setter you are guaranteed to get involved in the game.”
Johnson said Miller excels at moving the ball around. Miller always seems to get the ball to the right hitter while keeping the opposing defense off-guard, according to Johnson.
Most opponents concentrate on stopping Marcus senior middle blocker Brittany DeWeese and Emily Maher. Johnson doesn’t mind the attention the middle’s draw, because that makes things easier her and fellow junior outside hitter Michelle Hundt.
“We are just kind of like the underdogs,” Johnson said of herself and Hundt. “It’s nice to have Brittany (DeWeese) and Emily (Maher) drawing most of the attention.”
While Johnson marvels at Miller’s setting ability, Miller is a fan of watching Johnson hit.
“She hits the ball harder than anyone I know,” Miller said. “She can place it where ever she wants. It’s nice to have outside hitters who can place the ball that well.”
Tuesday night, Miller and Johnson will put their skills on display with the hope of taking the first step towards a regional tournament appearance.
