Northampton’s volleyball team suffered their first loss of the season Monday, falling to Freedom in four games 21-25, 23-25, 25-21, 18-25.

The Kids (3-1) enjoyed wins over Dieruff, Easton and Catasauqua to start the year, but Monday’s set back is one that head coach Morgan Litak hopes the team can learn from.

Jasmine Pavlinsky and Julia Kester each had eight kills for the Kids in Monday’s loss, while Sydney Heffner led the team 14 assists.

Taylor Heffner had 16 digs, but it wasn’t enough for Northampton to hold off Freedom (2-2) on the night.

“Defense would be one of our strengths thus far,” said Litak. “We have a few athletes that are stepping up on defense and making plays to keep the ball alive. Our setters are quick and able to run a faster offense this year. We have strong hitters on the roster, but we are working on adding cut shots and off speed plays into our offense.”

The Kids now head into their stretch with the northern teams in the East Penn Conference, taking on Pocono Mountain West and East Stroudsburg South this week, which should both favor them in the win column and put them in good position heading into next week.

With the fast start at their disposal, Northampton could be in the running for a potential district berth if they can beat the teams they’re supposed to.

“Approaching the rest of the week, we are going to take each game one at a time,” said Litak. “Our team objective is to put into play the skills we have been focusing on at practice. In doing this, the team’s objective is to end the week victorious.”