{
  "id": 5630701,
  "title": "Lions set with smaller but strong squad",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/04/lions-set-with-smaller-but-strong-squad",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-04T19:51:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/lions-set-smaller-strong-squad-195100929.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Despite a smaller roster this year, the Moses Lake Christian Academy Lions volleyball team remains optimistic about their upcoming season. Head Coach Dean Spurbeck acknowledged the loss of some players but expressed confidence in filling the gaps. The Lions finished the 2025 season with a 10-8 record, placing fourth in the Central Washington B League playoffs and losing to Pateros. Returning seniors Abby Stanley and Taylor Starne will lead the team, bringing valuable experience to help build the squad. Stanley and Starne are eager to see their teammates grow and improve over the summer. Spurbeck noted that the younger players are developing strength and maturity, which will contribute to the team's overall success. With a focus on improving ball control, the Lions aim to advance to the state championship. The season kicks off with a home game against Wilson Creek on September 8th at 6:15 p.m.",
  "summary": "Sep. 4—MOSES LAKE — Despite seeing a smaller roster this year, the Moses Lake Christian Academy Lions volleyball team is looking to build off their success from last season. With strong returners, the Lions are on track to stay competitive. \"We lost some people, but we'll be able to fill in, so that'll be nice. Not quite at the numbers that we normally have, but we'll make it work,\" said Lions ...",
  "key_points": [
    "Lions start season with smaller roster but strong squad",
    "Returning seniors Abby Stanley and Taylor Starne lead team",
    "Focus on improving ball control for state championship"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}