By Mark Blentlinger
Thursday, November 1st, in the gym of Schoolcraft High School, the Eagles were about to face off with the Comets of Kalamazoo Christian, for the District Championship. The 2 teams had seen each other twice previously in the season. The Eagles won the first meeting. The Comets were able to take the SAC tournament from the Eagles, in the second meeting, beating them 2-1, the weekend prior to the District tournament starting.
With the Championship and the continuation of the season on the line, both teams fan bases were in full force to cheer on their team. During the introduction of players, the lady Eagles tossed mini, autographed volleyballs into the crowd.
During play of these 2 teams, the atmosphere in the gymnasium was electric with every single point scored. Regardless of which team scored the point, the crowd would erupt as if that was the winning point. Both teams were playing with so much energy, neither team was going to go down easy. The Eagles were able to come out on top in Set 1, winning it 25-15. Set 2 was played just like the first, with the Eagles topping the Comets again, 25-15.
Set 3 started out with the Comets taking an early 7-3 lead. The Eagles were able to work their way back and both teams went point for point with each other. The Eagles were able to pull away taking Set 3, 25-19 and winning the District Championship.
After the game, Coach Onken remarked, “The girls came out in attack mode for the finals. They really wanted this game, their constant enthusiasm showed that. The captains did an awesome job of keeping everyone pumped up and focused on the game plan.” Onken was happy with the ball control and the attack, that was key. Tthe team minimized the unforced errors and kept the Comet defenders scrambling.
The stat leaders for the final were Andelyn Simkins and Maggie Morris having 11 kills each; Kayla Onken 6 Digs, Simkins 21, Kelby Goldschmeding, Madi Ballett 10 digs. The team combined for a total of 8 aces and Kayla Onken led the team with assists at 28. Next up for the Eagles is Nile/Brandywine at Bronson, November 6th, at 7:30 for the Regional semifinals.