Captain keeps Cougars in command

By BRANDON WRIGHT
Published October 6, 2006

CLEARWATER - Countryside's Taylor Wilson wiped away the tears as her family greeted her on Senior Night before the Cougars' match against Mitchell on Thursday.

"It was very emotional," Wilson said.

But those tears quickly faded into elation as Wilson turned in an impressive all-around effort to lead the Cougars (16-3) to a 25-17, 25-12, 25-23 sweep.

"No matter what happens, no matter what the situation, Taylor is 100 percent effort at all times," Cougars coach Kaylyn Bayly said. "She's earned the role of captain and run with it."

Playing with a tendon injury in her leg, a bruised left thumb that has been bandaged all season and a wrap around the other leg after it was cut during Tuesday's match, Wilson's play was only matched by her commanding court presence.

"She's our leader out there," Bayly said. "All energy, all the time.'

Wilson finished with six kills, but more importantly, nine digs and four blocks.

"I pride myself on my defense," Wilson said.

The only game Mitchell (16-5) challenged was the third but fittingly, Wilson hammered home match point.

"After (losing to Clearwater on Tuesday), we had to pick it up and we played every point with enthusiasm (Thursday)," Wilson said.

[Last modified October 6, 2006, 01:20:52]