The Iola-Scandinavia volleyball team won three of four matches Sept. 20 at the Fox Valley Lutheran Invitational and won the tournament’s silver bracket.
The Thunderbirds also swept Manawa Sept. 16 in Central Wisconsin 8 Conference play.
FVL Invitational
APPLETON – The T-Birds opened the tournament by dropping a pair of games to the host Foxes 25-14, 25-18, but regrouped and defeated Columbus (25-10, 25-15); New London (21-25, 25-20, 15-5); and Kewaunee (25-21, 25-15).
“We had an impressive presence at the tournament and felt good about what we were able to accomplish for the day, facing diverse teams that challenged us, yet we were able to come out on top,” coach Jessica Wennesberg said. “I was especially happy with the way the girls came back against New London. They didn’t let the first loss drag them down. When the game went to the deciding third set, we answered the challenge with a commanding 15-5 win.”
Brianne Huettner served 44 times during the tournament with 100-percent accuracy and led the team with seven aces.
“Brianne’s serving was impressive to say the least,” Wennesberg said. “Micaela Jobke led the team with 17 kills with Kaylin Ellioff contributing 14 of her own and five solo block kills. McKenna Prahl did an exceptional job coming in at clutch times to help the team earn the win. All in all, it was a great day and a lot of fun for our team.”
I-S 3, Manawa 0
IOLA – The T-Birds defeated the Wolves 25-12, 25-9, 25-15 and improved to 3-1 in CWC-8 matches.
“Our match against Manawa was a nice win for us after coming off a tough weekend tournament in Auburndale the Saturday before,” Wennesberg said.
Ellioff led the team with seven kills, while Jobke and Megan Mazemke added six each.
“Defensive specialists Brianne Huettner, Holly Boyle and Jayden Podgorny were a major factor in our success in hitting,” Wennesberg said. “Their passes were controlled and accurate, offering us a diverse offense. Emily Kroseberg led the night with five ace serves while Kylie Johnson had an impressive 13 assists. A strong team effort led to the win.”
The T-Birds hosted Bonduel Sept. 23 and will host Stevens Point Pacelli at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 30.