The Rural Retreat Indians (18-10) varsity volleyball team will face the Northwood Panthers (17-7) in a neutral playoff match today at 5 p.m. This game is part of the 2024 VHSL Girls Volleyball Region D Tournament for Class 1 in Virginia.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Virginia High School Volleyball
Who: Rural Retreat vs Northwood
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: 5 PM
Bracket: 2024 VHSL Girls Volleyball Region Brackets (Virginia) – Class 1 Region D
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Game preview: Rural Retreat vs Northwood
The 2024-2025 volleyball season has been an exciting and competitive one for both the Northwood and Rural Retreat high school teams. With strong records and passionate performances, these two teams have had a season full of ups and downs. Let’s take a closer look at their performance and how their season has shaped up so far.
Northwood’s Strong Season
The Northwood varsity volleyball team, based in Saltville, VA, has posted an impressive overall record of 17-7. Their region performance has been particularly stellar, finishing with a 11-1 record. With a home win percentage of .833 and a balanced performance away from home (5-5), Northwood has been a consistent force in the league. In fact, their win percentage of .708 showcases their ability to compete at a high level throughout the season.
Their head-to-head record against Rural Retreat is tied at 1-1 this season, with Northwood most recently winning a thrilling 3-2 contest on October 15, 2024. In this exciting match, Northwood bounced back from losing the first two sets, taking the next three in dominant fashion with scores of 25-17, 25-17, and 15-10.
Rural Retreat’s Resilient Play
Rural Retreat, also based in Virginia, has had a competitive season as well. With an overall record of 18-10, they’ve proven to be a tough opponent. They’ve had a solid region record of 7-4 and have shown their strength both at home (9-1) and on the road (5-6). Despite a few setbacks in non-league play (3-6), they’ve performed well in their region and had success against many of their common opponents.
Rural Retreat’s season has been highlighted by their 3-1 victory over Northwood on September 25, 2024. This victory was part of a string of strong performances where they also defeated teams like George Wythe, Chilhowie, and Honaker. Their overall record in common matchups stands at 10-3, reflecting their ability to compete against various opponents.
Head-to-Head Showdowns
When it comes to the rivalry between Northwood and Rural Retreat, the competition has been fierce. The two teams have faced off twice this season, each earning a win. On September 25, Rural Retreat triumphed in a 3-1 match, while Northwood gained redemption in their 3-2 victory on October 15.
This season has seen both teams display impressive resilience. In their last encounter, Northwood staged an incredible comeback, winning three straight sets after dropping the first two. On the other hand, Rural Retreat’s early-season victory was marked by consistent play, where they earned commanding wins in the first two sets.
Looking Ahead
As both teams head into their final matches, their playoff hopes remain high. Northwood enters the postseason with a neutral-site playoff match against Rural Retreat, scheduled for today at 5 p.m. This match could be a crucial turning point in the rivalry, as both teams are now tied in their head-to-head record for the season.
With a playoff showdown on the horizon and both teams showing strong performances against common opponents, including wins over J.I. Burton, George Wythe, and Chilhowie, the rivalry is bound to intensify as the season progresses. Northwood’s excellent region record and home-court advantage give them an edge, but Rural Retreat’s tenacity and strong road play keep them a dangerous threat.
In what promises to be an exciting end to the season, both Northwood and Rural Retreat are poised for more thrilling volleyball action. Will Northwood continue their region dominance, or will Rural Retreat upset the odds and secure a postseason victory? Fans will have to wait and see!
