Lions fall in Regional volleyball opener

Crestwood topped Clear Lake, 3-1, Wednesday, Oct. 23, ending the Lions’ season in the Regional volleyball opener.  Scores were 25-23, 26-24, 19-25 and 25-16.

Crestwood (19-16) advanced to face New Hampton.  The winner will meet either Mount Vernon or Jesup in the Regional final to be played Nov. 4 at Jesup High School.

“We literally lost that match by a few too many errors, losing two of those sets by just two points,” said Coach Heather Johnson.  “The momentum swung our way in that third set, and we were feeling really good going into set four.  Unfortunately, I think the pressure of us having to win that set took over and we just played really tight.”

Delaney Eden paced the team with 14 kills.   Kaitlyn VanderPloeg put down 10 and Sara Faber had nine for the Lions.

Coach Johnson noted Chelsey Holck finished with six kills, some of which were key to Lion wins.  Allexa Whitehouse finished with 5.

Senior Julia Merfeld was credited with 44 assists.

Ali Maulsby made four digs and Faber had three for the Lions.

“I am really proud of the way the girls handled this season and battled that last match,” added Coach Johnson.  “A special thank you to our seniors for dedicating their time to the program.”

The programs says goodbye to seven seniors: Julia Merfeld, Sara Faber, Kennadi Colbert, Allexa Whitehouse, Grace Beard, Kennedy Kallenbach and Stephanie Penning.

The Lions ended the season with a record of 8-26.