The Knoxville Volleyball Squad will play in a regional final for the second time in three seasons on Tuesday when the Panthers travel to Marion to take on the 3rd ranked team in class 4A. While the Panthers are seeking their first state tournament appearance in 30 years Coach Mollie Keitges tells KNIA/KRLS Sports she learned a few things about herself and how to prepare a team for a big match like Tuesday after experiencing a regional final in 3A two years ago. Keitges says it just comes down to telling the girls to go out and play volleyball and not worrying too much about the opponent.

Keitges: “I have a better idea of how I want to handle that and keep it fun. We got so wrapped up in the game and preparing for that, we just need to go play volleyball, that’s what they’re good ao go have fun.”

The Panthers will take the no pressure approach as well as Marion will be the heavy favorite going in. First serve from Marion is set for seven on Tuesday.

Photo from Ryan Northcote