The First Baptist Christian School Lady Eagles swept the Lady Eagles of Bethel Christian School 25-10, 25-14, 19-25, 25-16 in the bi-district round of the 2009 Louisiana State Playoffs.

For First Baptist (14-7, 2-4), the Division V home match against Bethel Christian was even more historic. The Eagles are in their first year of eligibility for the volleyball playoffs.

“It’s an exciting day for us, “ First Baptist coach Theresa Earhart said. “We had something to play for this season and we achieved our goal.” FBCS came into the contest as the No. 14 seed, while Bethel was 19th. FBCS jumped out to a 7-0 lead in the first game and won it easily 25-10. 

First Baptist’s setter and captain Hannah Jones was instrumental in the early going, not only from the service line, but also in her ability to make a number of nice sets.

But after two quick wins First Baptist seemed to lose their focus in the third game and Bethel Christian took advantage of it, posting a 25-19, come-from-behind win to keep their hopes alive.

“We just couldn’t get going,” said Bethel coach Jimmy Foster. “We were missing some of our starters tonight. One was out due to a death in the family. I’m proud of the way the girls came back in the third game but it just wasn’t enough.”

First Baptist sophomore outside hitter Sara Jones, dominated play throughout, particularly in the second contest where she seemed to be everywhere.

“We set a goal for the team to make it to the playoffs,” said Jones. “Winning our first playoff game was just a bonus. We worked hard to get here and it was a total team effort.”

FBCS coach Earhart was quick to praise not only her team’s effort, but the outstanding game that Jones had. 

“Sara (Jones) is an amazing player and best of all she will be back for two more years.  Her five kills and eight tips were big for us tonight.”

Other First Baptist players having good nights were, Sarah Petty with eight digs and five assists. Cassidy Wharton contributed eight digs and had a great night setting up the offense. Junior Lauren Gaudin added two blocks while Hannah Jones and Layla Maddox had four and two assists respectively.

Megan Duhon posted five kills for Bethel, while Paige Bonin had three kills. Coach Foster singled out Morgan John for her outstanding play.

With the win, First Baptist will travel Monday to take on No. 3 seed Houma Christian at 6 p.m. Houma Christian had a bye in the first round.