One missed serve in three sets earned the Comets another opportunity to compete for a section championship.
Hillcrest's volleyball team opened postseason play Wednesday with an impressive three-set sweep of Lake Park-Audubon, winning 25-15, 25-14, and 25-14 to advance to Friday night's matchup against Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa (BBE).
After a full week away from competition, the Comets returned to the court and gave one of their strongest performances this season. Hillcrest combined efficient attacking at the net with exceptional serving accuracy, missing just one serve throughout the entire match. "It was great to be back on the court after a week of practice and even better to pick up our first playoff win!" Head Coach Debi Foss noted. "The girls played efficient volleyball at the net and were strong from the service line, missing just ONE serve the entire match!"
The numbers tell the story of a focused team on a mission. Hillcrest recorded 37 kills, 54 digs, nine service aces, and 32 set assists. Elsa Retzlaff led the Comets' attack with 12 kills, plus 14 digs and three service aces. Elin Retzlaff added eight kills, a team-high 15 digs, and two blocks. Stella Moline led the offense with 22 set assists and added six digs and a service ace. Brooke Swedberg distributed seven assists and converted all 16 of her service attempts. Grace Swedberg was equally effective from the service line, landing three aces while going a perfect 17-for-17 on serves and collecting 14 digs. Aaveah Stender added nine digs and a block, and limited Lake Park-Audubon's opportunities to build momentum throughout the night.
The win sends Hillcrest into the next round against BBE on Friday night. "We're excited for the opportunity to keep competing and look forward to our matchup against BBE on Friday night!" Foss closed.