By RYAN ARENA

L’Observateur

ST. JAMES — St. Charles bounced back from a district loss at John Curtis Tuesday to even its mark within the league at 2-2 Thursday, downing St. James in three games, 25-9, 25-17 and 25-19.

Nicole Doming had 11 kills and three blocks. Alex Hitt tallied six aces. Heather Orillion had nine digs and Raven Becnel totaled 21 assists.

St. Charles coach Kristin Sullivan said that the team’s focus and communication levels were much better in their win over SJH than it was against Curtis.

“I feel like we could have competed better through that first round of district play,” said Sullivan. “But Thursday was a good sign. We started strong and everyone stayed focused, did what they were supposed to do. We’ve been working on doing all the little things correctly, and those add up. They did a really good job there.”

Tuesday saw Curtis down the Comets 25-12, 25-14 and 25-17.

Doming had five kills and a block. Emily Picciola had three aces. Becnel and Megan Ruiz each had 13 digs. Becnel also had 11 assists.

Sullivan said earlier this season that while serving and defensive play have been strengths for her team, the offense has been a work in progress.

As the season’s stretch run is upon us, she said that particular aspect is coming along.

“We’ve made strides,” she said. “The biggest thing for us comes down to passing. We’ve struggled at times and done great at others. When it’s on, our offense is much more effective. It’s something we’ve continued to focus on.”

SCC will resume play this weekend at the East St. John tournament.

Sullivan said that the tourney represents a good way to prepare for the second round of district, which begins with a tough rivalry matchup on the road at Riverside.

“I’m looking forward to it. I think we’ll see our team really compete down the stretch,” she said.