With just one week remaining in the regular season, the Midland College Lady Chaparrals are vying for a postseason berth as they prepare for a crucial road matchup against No. 12 New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI) on Wednesday night.
The Lady Chaparrals currently hold a 13-11 overall record and are 5-7 in Western Junior College Athletic Conference (WJCAC) play. They are tied for fourth place as the playoff race intensifies. Only the top four teams will advance to the regional tournament in Weatherford, meaning every set in the final two matches could determine whether Midland’s season continues. “It’s kind of odd to just put into perspective that we have one week left,” said head coach Kristina Gafford in an interview with TSBN Sports. “It’s been a good run so far, but now it’s simple — get in the top four, go to Weatherford. Don’t get in the top four, and the season’s over.”
According to Gafford, Midland previously took NMMI to five sets earlier this season and hopes to achieve a road upset in Roswell, where victories have been elusive. “Whoever upsets a team at this point is who’s getting that spot,” she said. “We could very easily be that team. We’ve competed really well with NMMI before, and we’re very capable. It just depends on if our girls decide that and can go out there and prove it.” The coach emphasized consistency and relentless defense as crucial elements for victory. “They have a really good block, and they’re consistent,” Gafford noted. “We have to expect it to be a battle and persevere throughout that battle. If we push hard enough and make it a consistent game, they might fold at the end.”
Gafford also praised several players for their late-season performances, including outside hitter Kusoglu, who recently delivered an impressive performance against Western Texas. “Ipek’s the definition of a closer,” she said. “If we need anyone to step up in a game, she’s that person. But we want more than just her — we need everyone doing their part. When we’re all in sync, we’re a solid team.”
Midland will conclude its regular season at home on Saturday for Sophomore Night, where Gafford hopes her team can finish strong regardless of the playoff outcome. “We’re ready to see what we have when we’re forced to have a gut check,” she said. “Hopefully it ends up in a good way for us — even if it’s not a win, we just want to know how competitive we can really be.”