Oakland County Commissioner Mike Gingell visited Lake Orion High School on May 16 to present the Dragons state championship volleyball team with a recognition award from the Oakland County commissioners.
The event had originally been scheduled for the winter, but snow days and exam schedules pushed the presentation to the spring. The Dragons defeated Rockford High School in four sets on Nov. 17 to earn Lake Orion’s first state championship in volleyball.
“Mr. Gingell recognized the girls for their hard work, their dedication, their academic performance, and the example that the team has set for future Dragon Volleyball Players by showing them what is possible if they are willing to work for it and believe in each other,” said Lake Orion Athletic Director Chris Bell.
Accepting the award on behalf of the team was the MHSAA Volleyball State Coach of the Year, Lake Orion Head Coach Tony Scavarda.
“This was extra special for Mr. Gingell, as he was able to break out his special Lake Orion tie and present the award to his home town school. Thank You Mr. Gingell and the Oakland County Commissioners for recognizing our Dragons,” Bell said.
The team swept rival Clarkston High School on Nov. 3 to win the district title, Troy High School in the regional semi-final Nov. 6 and Stoney Creek in the regional final Nov. 8.
The Dragons downed Flushing in the state quarterfinals on Nov. 13, then had a tough five-set semifinal match against then first-ranked Farmington Hills Mercy on Nov. 16.
The Oakland County Commissioners recognize all Oakland County teams that win state championships. – J.N.