Steamboat Pilot & Today

Steamboat Springs — Jessica Fritz ended her high-school volleyball career Sunday at the Colorado Coaches of Girls Sports All-State Volleyball Classic.
Fritz, an outside hitter, was a key to the Sailors post-season success this season. She led Steamboat to the state playoffs, where they defeated defending state-champion Fort Morgan.
Berthoud won the 2000 state title.
In the 4A all-star classic, which was played at Pomona High School, Fritz' red team fell to the opposing blue team in an exciting three-set match.
Fritz was one of 16 players who was chosen to play in the all-star match.
Fritz, who made first-team all-conference this season, delivered 69 kills in league competition. She also made 16 blocks and was 163-169 in passing opponents' serves during conference play.
The senior capped off a tremendous season by representing Steamboat at the all-star classic.
The blue team won 10-15, 15-9, 18-16.
"It was definitely a new experience to play with people you never played with before," Fritz said.
Fritz was joined on the red team by Rifle outside hitter Lisa Samuelson, who was a menace for Steamboat in regular and postseason play.
Samuelson led the Bears to the regional playoffs, where they were defeated by the Berthoud Spartans and the Lewis-Palmer Rangers.
At the district tournament in Glenwood Springs Oct. 28, Steamboat defeated Rifle in a three-set match. Fritz had 15 kills and was 27-28 passing.
Samuelson may have driven some nasty spikes against Steamboat this season, but Fritz said the two players high-fived on a number of occasions during the all-star match.
Fritz was a tremendous player who elevated her game to a higher level during the playoffs, Sailors coach Wendy Hall said.
Hall said Fritz's all-star nomination was well-deserved.
"It was fun to see them just have a great time," Hall said.

To reach Eric Rineer call 871-4229 or e-mail erineer@amigo.net