Ladies Volleyball Claims Regional Runner-Up

By Jon Crossman

ELLENDALE, North Dakota – Eagles volleyball played for regional dominance after one of the best seasons they've had in seven years, taking on a new opponent in Crown College and the familiar rivals of the Maranatha Sabercats. The ladies had high hopes against the energetic Maranatha team, who had just come off a 3-game win streak and showed no signs of slowing down in the championship tilt. A close loss to the Sabercats sealed out the championship ambitions for the Eagles, though it didn't dampen their winning spirit and positivity at the end of the tournament. Coach Lanny Nihart empowered the team to encourage each other and keep their heads up, with the future of the season still in sight for the team.

Concluding the end of a well-fought weekend for the Eagles was rookie star Emma Owens, whose 15 kills throughout the tournament and hitting all season has surprised even the most veteran of opponents. Makenna Laib, Morgan Stephens and Audrey Holbert all scrambled for 14 digs each against the Maranatha front row, digging up the powerful blows that the Sabercats couldn't seem to miss off a 24% kill percentage. Sadie Long got 3 solid blocks in the final game of the tournament, showing her big presence at the net that has been known to stump opponents' offense. The Eagles had an amazing weekend overall, finishing with 53 total kills and a stellar team defense that stood strong against even the strongest of hitters.

The Eagles season hangs in balance as they wait to see if playoff action in another region will allow them to secure a wild card trip to Nationals.