Chieftains fight for wins against challenging teams

By Ginna Young

The volleyball program at Lake Holcombe saw a busy week, traveling first to New Auburn, then hosting Bruce and finally, heading to Elmwood for an invitational tournament.

Sept. 7 vs. New Auburn conference (W 3-2)

Conference opponent New Auburn offered Lake Holcombe a challenge on the road, but the Chieftains wouldn’t be denied the victory. Lake Holcombe came up with the 3-2 win.

“The girls fought hard and persevered over a slow start in the first set,” said coach Beth Meddaugh. “Serving was a bit of a struggle, but all of the players were hitting well, so we were able to move the ball around quite a bit.”

Leading on kills, were junior Karly Kirkman, with 8 and senior Brooke Gingras, with 7. Freshman Chloe Lee led in assists, with 28, while sophomore Ava Story ended the night with 20 digs. Story also added 9 aces.

“I was very proud of their efforts tonight,” said Meddaugh.

Sept. 9 vs. Bruce conference (W 3-0)

It was then home to face Bruce, where the first set was a close affair, going to Lake Holcombe, 25-23. The next set was a bit easier for the Chieftains, as they took the win, 25- 15. The final set saw Bruce rebound, but Lake Holcombe claimed the set, 25-19.

“The team played very well tonight,” said Meddaugh. “They communicated well, worked hard and came together as a team.”

Gingras finished with 7 kills, followed by senior Josi Elmberg and Kirkman, with 6. Lee notched 26 assists on the night, while Elmberg and Lee each had 11 digs.

Sept. 11 vs. Elmwood Invitational (L 8-0)

“The Elmwood tournament was tough as far as losses go, but we went to the tournament specifically to play bigger schools and teams,” said Meddaugh. “These teams moved at a fast pace, and gave the team some good competition and experience.”

At the tournament, Lake Holcombe went up against Grantsburg, Immanuel Lutheran, Durand and Luck, where the Chieftains dropped the sets, 2-0, in each match-up.

Gingras led with 9 kills, while sophomore Emma Lechleitner, Elmberg and freshman Ella Hartzell each had 5. Lee again led on assists, with 28. Hartzell recorded 27 digs on the day, followed by Elmberg, with 18.

“It was a valuable learning experience for a young team,” said Meddaugh.