The Alabama School for the Deaf (ASD) Lady Warriors Volleyball Team, led by Head Coach Cedric Tyson and Assistant Coach Savannah Dulaney, traveled to Washington School for the Deaf in Vancouver, Washington to compete in the ACE Tournament. This two-day tournament featured teams from seven other teams from across the country including American School for the Deaf, Arizona State School for the Deaf and the Blind, Delaware School for the Deaf, Kansas School for the Deaf, New Mexico School for the Deaf, Washington School for the Deaf and Wisconsin School for the Deaf.
“Being able to travel to compete against other Deaf schools from across the country is important for our students,” said Jason Cox, Principal, ASD. “It gives them a chance to socialize with other students who are Deaf and create a network of support as they transition to their college or career.”
The ASD Lady Warriors entered the tournament as the number 3 seed. During the tournament's first day, the Lady Warriors took on the American School for the Deaf, the New Mexico School for the Deaf and the Wisconsin School for the Deaf.
In the first round of competition, they claimed a firm victory against the number 4 seed, American School for the Deaf, 2 - 0. In the second round of competition, the Lady Warriors took on the number 1 seed, New Mexico School for the Deaf. After a hard-fought match, the Lady Warriors were defeated 2 - 0. During the third round, the Lady Warriors competed against the number 2 seed, Wisconsin School for the Deaf. The team put up fierce competition but was ultimately defeated 2 - 1.
On day two of the tournament, the Lady Warriors entered the single-elimination round. First up, they competed against the Arizona State School for the Deaf and Blind where they won 2 - 0. They then competed against the New Mexico School for the Deaf. The team fought hard and never gave up but was ultimately defeated 2 - 0.
But it was not over yet! The Lady Warriors finished the tournament by competing for third place against the Kansas School for the Deaf. It was a tough competition but the Lady Warriors were able to finish strong and defeat Kansas 2 - 1.
“Our Lady Warriors have shown incredible resilience throughout this season, facing a tough schedule against public schools and competing with some of the best volleyball teams at the ACE Volleyball Tournament,” commented Head Coach Cedric Tyson. “Playing against the best Deaf teams at the tournament was an eye-opening and valuable experience for them. They quickly realized they had to step up and bring their A-game to win. It was all about mindset and passion and that drive led us to a third-place finish. Their outstanding sportsmanship, dedication and teamwork were evident in every match. I couldn’t be more proud of how they represented ASD and embodied the true spirit of our school community. Their hard work in practice and on the court truly paid off.”
“I'm incredibly proud of our Lady Warriors for their hard work and dedication in representing ASD at the ACE Tournament,” continued Coach Tyson. “Their performance at the ACE Volleyball Tournament at Washington School for the Deaf was a true testament to their perseverance and teamwork. They competed with heart and demonstrated the values that define our community, continuing the tradition of being the home of champions! We couldn’t be prouder of how they carried themselves on and off the field.”
