Even as the volleyball season is winding down, the Straughn Lady Tigers are gearing up for what will hopefully be a successful outcome.

“We’re winding it down,” Straughn coach Lori Kinsaul said. “We’re just trying to gear up for the last part of the season and we are working hard to hopefully capture an area championship.”

The Lady Tigers will finish their area play this week, playing at home against Pike County tonight, and traveling to face Luverne on Thursday night.

Kinsaul said her approach in regards to the last few area games is simple.

“We’re just going to keep doing what we’re doing,” she said. “We’re trying to make sure we’re serving strong and just definitely working on our hitting. I’ve got some girls that can really hit the ball. They’ve just got to get their timing down.”

Straughn is currently in the lead in its area and the Lady Tigers have a good chance to host the area tournament on Oct. 12.

“If we win out, we will host the area tournament,” Kinsaul said.

Kinsaul said earlier in the season, the team was still working to finding their “rhythm.” She said, “They’re getting there.”

“We’ve had a lot of changes just in the last few weeks,” she said. “I think they are getting there.”

Kinsaul said the team is still working on the “small things” to get ready for the next two weeks.

“I don’t think we’re completely there yet, but there are still some communication problems every now and then,” she said. “But those are getting better. So, I definitely think we’re on the right track. The next two weeks will really seal the deal on that.”

Tonight, the Lady Tigers will host Pike County in area play starting at 4:30 p.m. with junior varsity. Senior Kayla Messer will be recognized as part of “Senior Night” festivities.