Most coaches shy away from the topic of fear, but Incarnate Word volleyball coach Darren Isaak has embraced it.

Isaak had his players talk about their biggest volleyball-related fears during Monday’s practice.

“A couple of players were on the team that lost to Parkway West in districts, so they talked about that,” Isaak said. “A couple of players talked about the lone senior in the locker room last year after what they felt was a poor showing at state. I think it was good to get it out in the open.”

Maybe Incarnate’s opponents should have some fear of them. The Red Knights cruised to the Class 4, District 6 title with a 25-5, 25-5 dismantling of Ritenour.

Emily Keaton and Victoria Mahl combined for 11 kills and Mallory Warrington and Megan Muesenfechter combined for 21 assists. Isaak said Keaton, Warrington and Marissa Mafuli found some consistency to their games in the win.

Incarnate (23-9 overall) will play Hazelwood West in sectionals at McCluer North on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. The Red Knights will be playing for their third consecutive trip to state.

“We’re looking forward to Saturday,” Isaak said. “At this point we’re not looking past any opponent. We’re taking it one point at a time and one game at a time and we’ll see what happens.”