MaxPreps Oklahoma Team of the Week presented by the Oklahoma National Guard

After a bitter way to start the season, the girls volleyball team at Stillwater (Okla.) rebounded in a resounding way, earning it the initial 2013-14 MaxPreps Oklahoma Team of the Week presented by the Oklahoma National Guard.

Stillwater, which went 23-13 under coach Jason Webber last season, opened 2013 with a tough five-set road loss to Oklahoma Bible (Enid) 25-17, 21-25, 23-25, 27-25, 15-12.

Seniors Morgan Wheatley and Maggie Ireton combined for 18 kills, Ireton and freshman Katie Ray combined for 36 assists and senior Carley Geer had 26 digs.

"It could have been early season jitters, but I attribute some of the loss to not having my sophomores in play ..." said Webber. "The girls struggled to stay united and we fell apart."

The Pioneers came back two days later, also on the road, and weren't going to be denied again, this time recording a sweep over Broken Arrow 25-23, 27-25, 25-17.

Wheatley, a 5-8 middle blocker, and Sarah Carpenter, a 5-8 senior outside hitter, each had nine kills to pace the Pioneers. Sophomore Carley Walstad served for 10 points and had 31 assists, while Geer contributed 15 digs.

Geer and Carpenter also did a superb job passing with a combined 32 returns.

"My seniors are excellent," said Webber. "They know their role is so much more than leading. It is a role of patience and teaching as well."

In the ultimate bounce-back performance on Saturday, Stillwater defeated the same team that it had lost to just days earlier when it took down Oklahoma Bible 25-20, 25-18, 22-25, 25-11 in the Union Tournament.

"With a great group of juniors, sophomores and freshmen listening, it helps to bond the team and expedite growth," said Webber.

Stillwater continues nonleague play this week with a match at Bishop Kelley.

Do you know a team that deserves consideration for Oklahoma Team of the Week? Email us with your nominations at OKteamoftheweek@maxpreps.com.