By Sam Parsons
The #12 Oskaloosa Indians made the road trip to #2 North Scott last night for the volleyball region championship and saw their season end at the hands of the Lancers.
North Scott boasted a substantial size advantage over the Indians and used it to great effect (3 players listed at 6’0 or taller, compared to just 1 for Oskaloosa). Sophomores Abbey Hayes and Emee Allard, along with junior Kaci Johnson and seniors Lauren Golinghorst and Shelby Spears, each finished with 5+ kills for the Lancers as they spread the ball around. The Indians were led by senior Maleah Walker in kills (12 unofficial).
Oskaloosa jumped out to an early lead in the first set 8-5, but then it all came together for the Lancers as they embarked on a 12-1 run. Osky was unable to muster a substantial rally to get back in it and fell 25-16.
The next two sets had similar stories play out: Osky would get up early, North Scott would go on a run, and Osky would be unable to recover. Both sets 2 and 3 ended 25-14 in favor of the Lancers, and the #2 team in the state survived and advanced to the state tournament.
Oskaloosa finishes 23-11 in the first season under head coach Ashley Goytia; a season that, undoubtedly, should be categorized as a success. They graduate seniors Pressley Blommers, Lucy Roach, and Maleah Walker.
