(3) Vermilion vs. (2) Lexington
What: Division II Attica District semifinal
When: Oct. 25 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Seneca East High School, 13343 E. US Route 224
Records: Vermilion 20-3, Lexington 19-5
Vermilion’s path: Defeated Mansfield Senior 3-0 and Bellevue 3-1.
Lexington’s path: Defeated Toledo Central Catholic 3-0 and Port Clinton 3-0.
On deck: Winner advances to the district final to play the winner of (1) Lake and (4) Perkins on Oct. 27.
Outlook: Vermilion has been the favorite in its matches almost all season. For the first time in a while, the Sailors will be the underdogs against the Minutemen. Maybe that is something the Sailors want for extra motivation in their district championship defense. Vermilion’s biggest strength is its front line with Gracie Starcovic, Kate Colahan and Maddie Stout. First-year starters Angelique Garcia (6 assists per set) and Rachel Lapka (4.2) have been big contributors as their setters. Lexington is young. Leading hitter Ava Brown (4 kills per set) is a freshman and also averages 4.2 assists per set. Their leader in assists is Isabelle Temple (5.6 assists per set). She is also a freshman. Lexington doesn’t have the deep tournament experience that Vermilion has. It will be interesting to see if Vermilion’s experience from their elite-eight run can be used on Oct. 25.
Perez’s pick: Vermilion
