Cornerstone’s versatility has led to a strong season. When they had a down match against Wickliffe on Oct. 7, the Patriots relied on that versatility. The Blue Devils kept sets close, making runs when Tamarra Talbert was off the court. But strong play from Shayla Dungy and Gabby Colquitt limited those runs en route to a sweep. Cornerstone moves to 17-2, while Wickliffe fell to 4-14. The Blue Devils held leads in the first two sets, leading to Cornerstone coach Shari Hansen calling timeouts. Both times, they resulted in a Patriots run to the lead. “A lot of it was just limiting the mistakes,” Hansen said. “We had way too many service errors today. There were some silly mistakes in there. It was just encouraging the team and the girls. We know how to play volleyball, let’s move our feet, use our voices and play the volleyball we know how to play.” The run was led by Talbert and Lia Camerieri, who had 12 and nine kills, respectively. Talbert also reached her 500th career kill in the contest. The senior, while used to being the go-to player for the Patriots, said she doesn’t need to be the only attacker for the team. The team can play from pin to pin, and she can add impact from the middle. “My biggest focus is making sure that I am leading the team like I know I should,” Talbert said. “It gives them an example of what to lead up to. It’s bittersweet being in that senior group. We won’t be here to see the continued growth. But all the seniors have made an impact and know that it’ll transition once we graduate.” She also added three blocks in the contest. The teams traded the lead in the second set. Wickliffe went on a 3-1 run to force a second timeout from Cornerstone. Cornerstone tied the game at 23-23 and Cheyenne Patton went to the service line. She had back-to-back aces to take the set. Patton was the primary setter for the Patriots last season. This year, she shares the setting with Bella Camerieri. It has freed her up to impact the game from more angles. She finished the contest with six kills and six digs. “It was really good, I think just bringing intensity, keep moving,” Patton said. “Keep the ball moving, have us moving fast, quick plays help us get to game points. It’s super fun, getting to learn setting and hitting. It’s been a cool experience all around. You learn different gameplay and get to see into a hitter’s mind.” With Talbert running the front row and Patton controlling the offense in multiple ways, Ashley Hansen is running the back row. The sophomore has found her voice on the floor, guiding the receiving game in limiting the success of opponents’ attacks. Ashley Hansen said she has become comfortable in her role. “I think vocalism is really big in our back row,” Ashley Hansen said. “It really helps to lead it. It also doesn’t only help us in the back but also our setters and hitters knowing how to get to the ball as well.” Having several leaders has pushed the Patriots to strong performances this season. After a 12-11 season a year ago, Shari Hansen challenged the team to take the next steps. The players have answered and others have noticed. The Patriots earned the fourth seed in the Division VII district pool for the postseason starting next week. “We have a really balanced offense this year,” Shari Hansen said. “Two strong middles, our outside hitters are really coming along as are the right sides. This team is a real joy to coach this year. They’re coming into their own, the girls have played varsity for several years. They know what they want, they’re driven, they know what to do. They’re guiding the team not just by their play but with the voice.” Wickliffe had some strong performances, as well. Tatiana Farmer had six kills and Kelsey Grubiss had five. Both Madelyn Prosuch and Aubrey Musgrave had three aces. The Blue Devils finish the regular season with a trip to Berkshire on Oct. 8. Cornerstone travels to Fairport on Oct. 10 in its penultimate game of the regular season.