The postseason started the way the regular season ended for Aberdeen Christian Tuesday night.
The Knights extended their winning streak to eight straight matches with a sweep in the opening round of the Region 1B volleyball tournament at the Christian School Gym.
Strong serving, dominant hitting, and steady defense carried the Knights to a 25-18, 25-20, 25-12 victory over Langford Area.
The Knights came out energized and in control from the first serve, keeping their composure to secure the sweep and advance to the semifinals on Thursday.
Jolie Fogarty and Ari Johnson led the charge for the Knights’ offense, each recording 10 kills to keep the pressure on the Lions throughout the match.
Johnson reflected on the team’s balance and consistency.
“I think everybody getting a consistent number of blocks and kills every game helps us,” Johnson said.
Christian’s serving game was also on point, racking up multiple aces that kept the Lions off balance and unable to find a rhythm. Alexis Isakson and Sawyer Schwan each collected four aces on the evening.
Defensively, the Knights recorded more than five blocks, turning away several Langford Area scoring attempts and controlling the net throughout the match.
Christian coach Sally Stoebner praised her team’s fundamentals after the win.
“I thought we passed really well,” Stoebner said, “and I think our communication is actually what lifted that off.”
Johnson emphasized the importance of focus and teamwork for the Knights.
“I think it was definitely just staying together and being consistent,” Johnson said, “and trying not to make any errors.”
The third set became a showcase for the Knights, who racked up 12 consecutive points at one stage, exciting the home crowd. The streak highlighted the team’s momentum to close out the match strongly.
On the other side of the net, the Lions fought hard throughout the match, keeping rallies alive and showing a determined effort.
The defeat marked the end of their season, but the Lions left the court with plenty to be proud of.
Langford Area coach Susan Larson praised her team’s effort despite the setback.
“They’re not afraid of hard work,” Larson said. “I’m really proud of the way they played the first two sets.”
Larson also noted areas where her team could have improved a bit.
“I think slowing the game down and staying in system” would have helped the team execute better, she said.
The match was the final one for Langford Area senior Emily Olson.
While naturally disappointed, she also highlighted the team’s bond.
“We work so hard and we’re all just one big family,” Olson said, “and I’m really thankful for all of them.”
Christian, 16-8 on the season, will now head to Mellette on Thursday where it will take on second-rated Northwestern in the semifinals at 6 p.m. The winner will head to the round of SoDak 16 next Tuesday.
Serving: Langford Area 42-45 1 ace (Alex Darling 13-13, Paytyn Marlow 8-8, Brooklyn West 4-6); Aberdeen Christian (Alexis Isakson 4 aces, Sawyer Schwan 4 aces).
Hitting: Langford Area 51-61 13 kills (Emily Olson 13-14 5 kills, Lizzie Gustafson 11-16 3 kills, Brooke Dwight 12-14); Aberdeen Christian (Jolie Fogarty 10 kills, Ari Johnson 10 kills, Reagan Jett 8 kills).
Setting: Langford Area 60-60 13 assists (Marlow 45-45 11 assists, West 15-15 2 assists); Aberdeen Christian (Schwan 23 assists).
Digs: Langford Area 44 (Gustafson 10, Olson 9, Marlow 5); Aberdeen Christian (Payton Skarin 14, Isakson 8).
Blocks: Langford Area 5 (Mariah Tosse 1 solo 2 assists, Gustafson 1 solo 2 assists); Aberdeen Christian (Johnson 2 solo 3 assists, Sophia Eichler 3 assists, Jett 1 assist).
Records: Langford Area 11-21; Aberdeen Christian 16-8.
