Rocori sweeps Apollo volleyball, preps for season ahead

Rocori's varsity volleyball team dominated Apollo, sweeping the match with a score of 25-8, 25-3, 25-4. Apollo had struggled since the start of the decade, with 32 consecutive losses and a record of 6-85. Meanwhile, Rocori has claimed as many sets this season as Apollo has in the previous three combined. Apollo's coach, Mike Beehler, acknowledged the team's poor performance despite their 3-33 record.

Rocori coach, Heidi Willenbring, noted that every team deserves a competitive effort, regardless of their performance level. She experimented with player positions, giving senior Ava Viere a chance at right side where she secured the final point of the game. Junior Brynn Lommel and sophomore Eliett Satterstrom delivered the first two set-winning points for Rocori.

This victory marks the seventh consecutive win over Apollo, pushing Rocori's record to 22-3 against the Eagles since 2007. Though the Spartans aren't constructing a winning season, their strong momentum will drive them to achieve the next level. Willenbring praised her team's resilience, communication, and mutual support, indicating a promising future.

Rocori will face Bemidji on September 15, while Apollo resumes play on September 12 against Little Falls.