CL volleyball team picks up impressive win

The Clear Lake volleyball team stormed back from an 0-2 start and recorded an impressive win over Bishop Garrigan, ranked 11th in Class 1A.  The Lions got the win on the road, 19-25, 24-26, 25-18, 25-20, 15-8.

“I was very proud of this volleyball team,” said an elated Head Coach Scott Swenson.  “We could have folded up 

our tent and went home after the second set, losing it after a lead and being down two to zero in set play. But this team found a way to reach deep down and overcome the adversity  with a will and determination to beat a ranked team.  They banded together and played well the last three sets to come away with a victory.  It was a total team effort.”

Emily Phalen led the Lions’ power game, putting down 11 kills.  She was also 9/10 serving and had 10 digs in the match.  Katie Hewett also had double digit kills.  She was a force at the net with 10 kills and three solo blocks.  Bailey Kibsgaard finished with eight kills, 19/21 serving with two aces and six digs. Lindsey Loudenburg had six kills in the match, 11/13 serving with one ace and six digs.   

Coach Swenson added that Emily Phalen continues to be an all-around consistent player and great teammate, providing excellent energy for the team on the court and in the locker room with her leadership. 

In the back row, Kaye Faber had 26 assists, nine digs and was 14/15 serving with three aces.  Jeni Hamlin was credited with 15 assists and eight digs.  She was 16/18 from the service line with one ace.  Madi Faber had 17 digs and was 13/14 with three aces. 

With the win, the Lions are 3-1 in the North Central Conference standings and 6-10 overall.