As the weather gets chillier and students get back into the school routine, Lincoln High School’s Girls’ Volleyball team has started off their season strong, winning their first four matches.
Coach Rob Schmitt, in his sixth year with Lincoln and third as head coach, expects the team to be in the playoffs this year. He highlighted the high ability level of this year’s roster.
“This is by far one of the most athletic groups of new players that we have had in the six years that I have been here,” he said. “Their combination of athleticism, enthusiasm and work ethic make me excited about our future.”
The team played their first game of the season against Pilgrim High School and won with a 3-1 score. From there, they played North Smithfield High School, Burrillville High School, St. Mary Academy Bay View, and Cumberland High School. The first four games were successful and gave the team wins. Despite their loss against Cumberland High School Tuesday night, they still have a big chance of making it to the playoffs.
“We faced less competitive teams in the beginning of our season and are now preparing for more challenging games in the coming weeks,” senior captain Kimmy Hickey said.
Schmitt explained how the team has had a very strong defense in the past, but this season they are focusing strongly on offense. Connecting setters with hitters, keeping a consistent tough defense, and working on offense are the main approaches this year. The players are fully behind this philosophy.
“The more consistency we maintain on defense, the greater chance we give our offense to score,” senior captain Kimmy Hickey said.
The strong defensive core led by students Kimmie Hickey, Breanne Bouthillette, Rylie Moreau, and Noura Srour make this season promising. New starting setters Raia Henry and Gianna Rivera have added competition to the team, along with middles Lucia Whythe, Brielle Lambert and Priya Blomstedt. Players Allie Dumont and Ava Cabral have trained hard during the offseason, and are ready to come back strong.
Last season, the team was ranked sixth in division two, with ten wins and seven losses. The team made it to the quarterfinals, but lost to Middletown High School.
Their next match will take place on 9/18/25 against Middletown High School, and will be an away game.
