Hillsdale shakes off slow start to down Lake Center in regionals
After shaking off regional jitters in the first set, the Falcons looked every bit the team that now has 20 wins this season.
Hilliade's volleyball team experienced a nervous atmosphere during their first regional appearance in 50 years, after a slow start against Lake Center Christian. The Falcons were down 4-0 in the first set and 7-1, forcing coach Matti Willeke to use her first timeout. Despite the challenging environment, the team found their rhythm later in the match.
Jillian Cowger, a key player, said the crowd's energy fueled her, and she loves a lively crowd. Hillsdale won the match 19-25, 25-22, 25-21, and 25-20, advancing to the regional championship for the first time in 50 years. Cowger, Jordyn Fickes, and Kiki McFadden were instrumental in the victory, with Cowger closing out the second set, Fickes scoring a season-high 16 kills, and McFadden leading with 19 kills.
The team now focuses on Saturday's championship against Dalton, aiming to avenge two previous losses and make a return to state.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
