Last week the Vals volleyball team came up with losses against two heavy hitters.

Tuesday against defending Montana Christian Athletic Association State Champion Stillwater Christian, the Vals traveled to Kalispell and lost in three sets, 25-5, 25-12 and 25-13. Saturday the Vals saw a home game against Thompson Falls, who was the consensus pick to win District 7B volleyball. They lost in three sets, 25-15, 25-7, and 25-9.

“We knew this last week was going to be difficult,” head coach Tracy Wicklund said. “It is games like this that will only help us get better.”

The girls were able to improve their scores as the sets against Stillwater played out on Tuesday.

Wicklund said once the young, inexperienced Vals got that first set over with, they seemed to relax a little and started to play.

Thompson Falls had two returning all-state middle hitters and Wicklund said they seemed to be as strong as ever on Saturday. The Vals also lost their number one setter Brittany Schnell to a concussion. She had to sit out and Wicklund said some younger players had to step it up and play positions they haven’t played in the past.

“The girls stepped in and played hard,” Wicklund said. “I was proud that the girls took the losses with grace and poise.”

In the game against Thompson Falls Tessa Robertson picked up six blocks, Marissa Hiza hit three aces and collected eight digs, Kayla Casalegno pushed up two assists and Robertson and Alanis Stallknecht had two kills each.

Wicklund said this week at practice they will focus on team chemistry, serving, receiving and transitioning into their offense.

“We will continue to work hard to improve and put the early part of the season behind us,” Wicklund said. “I feel confident that we have the players to upset a few teams if we stay diligent and positive.”

Up next for the Valkyries is Thursday’s home matches against Mission. The freshman game starts at 4 p.m. Bigfork plays an away game against Troy on Saturday.