By Candice Harper

PICKENS – When most think about volleyball in Pickens County, the Upstate or even the State of South Carolina, there is always one name sure to be included in the mix, Pickens. But this year, another team hopes to take Pickens out of the running for the state title. That team is the Daniel Lions.

In just seven days, the Lady Blue Flame and Lady Lions will face off for Spirit Night at Pickens on Sept. 30 at 6:30 p.m.

Both teams participated in the Tournament of Champions (TOC) held at Dorman High School on Sept. 18 and 19. Daniel took home the trophy for the tournament. The TOC is an invitation only tournament of all state champions from South Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee.

Daniel’s captain Hayley Hoover made the First Team All-Tournament Team and Sarah Beasley made the Second Team All-Tournament Team.

The team all agreed and said they are tired of coming in second. They said the No. 1 ranking isn’t enough for them; they want a ring on their finger to prove they are No. 1.

This year’s team is so talented,” said Coach Joy Stewart. “I believe they can beat any team in the state, including Pickens, we have to communicate. Communication is key on the volleyball court to win.”

The Lady Lions are undefeated up to this point in the season. They hope to keep the streak going this week with a win over Seneca, Belton Honea Path, West-Oak and most of all, Pickens.

Pickens Coach Jennifer Gravely’s team also played in the TOC over the weekend. Pickens did have a few players missing due to Homecoming weekend.

When asked about the season Gravely said, “Overall, we’ve been up and down.  We are still trying to find the right combination of athletes, trying to get injured players healthy and trying to find our groove.”

Pickens will look Daniel square in the eyes Wed., Sept. 30 at 6:30 p.m.