By Byron Beers/Staff Writer

Since starting the volleyball season at 1-1, El Reno has struggled to find its way over the last week under second-year head coach Kristen Reeves.

The Indians dropped three straight matches last week against Southwest Covenant, Carl Albert and Union City. Also, during a tournament in Claremore last weekend, they failed to win a game.

But the string of recent losses doesn’t show the development that the Indians have made, not only this year but since Reeves’ first season as coach.

“We’re definitely still improving in every area since last season,” Reeves said. “The biggest difference is that we just know the game so much better. Our tip coverage has improved, our passing has greatly improved and we cover the floor much better.

“I think where we are still trying to get better and where we are most inconsistent is our communication and serving.

On Thursday, the Indians dropped three of four games in a match at Union City. El Reno defeated the Cougars 25-17 in the first game before falling in three straight (25-15, 25-22 and 25-18).