Tony Whitehead, GCM Sports

FAIRHOPE— The St. Michael Catholic High volleyball team held the new school’s first official sporting event on the high school campus Tuesday. The Cardinals inaugural freshmen-sophomore team defeated visiting Baker’s freshmen in straight sets 25-7, 25-21. Freshman Sydney Barter put the ball in play for the Cardinals and scored the first-ever service ace on the home court.

"Very excited to get that first game in our own gym,” said Cardinals head coach Missy Williams whose team had played 12-straight matches away. “A little nerves but overall it went well and we played well. And to get our first win in our first home game is just icing on the cake."

She added notes of appreciation for the support the budding program has received.

“Just a lot of thanks and gratitude from the community and everyone who came out today; parents and teachers. We had teachers from, not only St. Michael's but from Christ the King (Daphne), St. Patrick's (Robertsdale) and St. Benedict's (Elberta).”

St. Michael Athletic Director Paul Knapstein agreed that getting the win was a nice finish to a historic day.

"To get a win in our first ever athletic competition in any sport on our campus is truly exciting. To have 300 people turnout for a JV volleyball event is great. We had 400 fans follow us to Millry last week for football. So it's great to see so much support and also really proud of all the athletes and coaches for their hard work. I know they all worked hard all summer to get ready for this first year. We're looking forward to growing as part of the community and excited to keep moving into the future together."

The Cardinals will travel to St. Luke’s Episcopal Sept. 13, host St. Paul’s Sept. 15 and host neighboring Bayside Academy Sept. 21. The football Cardinals lost their first game at Millry 14-0. They will play at Mobile Christian Monday at 6 p.m. and kickoff their first home game Sept. 26 hosting Chickasaw at Fairhope Municipal Stadium (Volanta Park) at 6 p.m.

For full schedules visit: StMichaelCHS.org. Also follow Cardinals events/scores on twitter: @SMCHSAthletics1.