A volleyball player in motion, preparing to receive a volley, wearing a white jersey with maroon accents and black shorts, knee pads, and white shoes. The background features a volleyball court and spectators.
George County’s Darla Fairley returns a shot. The Lady Rebels swept Gautier Tuesday night to open the Class 6A South State playoffs Tuesday night. (Photo by Jackson Ranger)

By Sam Staff/Sports Writer

LUCEDALE — In an all “Southern Six” showdown Tuesday night, home-standing George County swept Gautier to open the Class 6A South State prep volleyball playoffs.

The Lady Rebels, Region 3-6A champs for the second straight season, took down the fourth-seeded Lady Gators out of Region 4-6A 3-0 (25-16, 25-11, 25-19). George County moved to 26-11 overall on the season, while Gautier ended its season at 17-18.

Three volleyball players celebrating on the court, wearing white jerseys with 'Rebels' written on them. One player is jumping and shouting excitedly, while the others are engaging and smiling.
George County’s Claire Christian (23) celebrates with her teammates after a key point. (Photo by Jackson Ranger)
A female volleyball player wearing a Rebels jersey prepares to serve the ball during a match.
George County’s Kennedi Jenkins (1) prepares to serve the ball for the Lady Rebels. (Photo by Jackson Ranger)

The Lady Rebels will host Picayune Thursday night with a berth in the Class 6A South State finals on the line. The Lady Tide knocked off Hattiesburg 3-1 (20-25, 25-8,25-18,25-5) Tuesday night to advance.

Picayune is now 10-18 overall.

George County and Picayune have not met so far this season.

A volleyball player jumps to perform a high serve during a match, with spectators visible in the background.
George County’s Emalyn Lightsey goes up for a shot. The Lady Rebels swept Gautier Tuesday night to open the Class 6A South State playoffs. (Photo by Jackson Ranger)
A group of volleyball players celebrating a point, with one player in the center energetically expressing excitement and determination.
George County’s Kennedi Jenkins (1) celebrates scoring a point with her teammates. (Photo by Jackson Ranger)

Elsewhere in Class 6A South, home-standing Hancock swept past jackson Forest Hill 3-0 (25-8, 25-12,25-8) to move to a solid 23-8 overall and move on to a home match-up with Region 4-6A rival Long Beach Thursday night.

Hancock is the Region 4-6A champ.

That’s because the Lady Bearcats went on the road and swept West Jones 3-0 (25-12, 25-7, 25-23) Tuesday night. Long Beach is now 10-10 overall.

Picayune is the second seed. in Region 4-6A, and LBHS is the third seed.

With all four teams left vying for a spot in the Class 6A state finals, the “Southern Six” is assured of having a team playing for the title this season.

Last season, George C0unty played for the state title after beating Hancock in the South State finals. The Lady Rebels got swept 3-0 by Lake Cormorant in the title match.

A female volleyball coach passionately addresses her team during a timeout in a gymnasium, with players listening attentively.
George County head coach Laney Christian talks with her players in a huddle between periods. (Photo by Jackson Ranger)
Five female volleyball players in team jerseys celebrating and interacting on the court.
George County players celebrate scoring a key point during a game. The Lady Rebels swept Gautier Tuesday night to open the Class 6A South State playoffs Tuesday night. (Photo by Jackson Ranger)
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