CL volleyball team opens season at Clarion Tournament

The Clear Lake volleyball team got its season off to a good start, going 2-3 in match play and 6-6 in sets at the Clarion Volleyball Tournament played Saturday.

The Lions posted wins over Northeast Hamilton (21-11, 21-15) and Eagle Grove (21-10, 21-10).  Clear Lake opened with a 22-20 win against Clarion-Goldfield, then dropped the second game 21-15 and fell in the third, 15-11.  A third and deciding game was also needed against CAL-Latimer.  CAL won the first two, 15-11, 22-20; the Lions dominated the third, 21-11.

North Butler topped the Lions, 21-14, 21-12.

Statistical leaders for the Lions were Emily Phalen, with 19 kills and 19 digs.  She was 32/36 serving with four aces.  Bailey Kibsgaard put down 15 kills, was 33/35 serving with five aces and had five blocks.  Lindsey Loudenburg recorded 14 kills and 16 digs.  Katie Hewett scored on 11 kills.

Madison Faber orchestrated much of the Lion offense with 51 assists.  She also was 27/29 serving with six aces.  Jeni Hamlin helped the offense with 30 assists and was 25/27 serving with seven aces.  Kaye Faber contributed 27 assists and was 22/25 at the service line with three aces.  Sam Wilkinson was busy in the back row with 33 digs.

    Coach Scott Swenson said senior leadership provided by Bailey Kibsgaard, Jeni Hamlin, Madison Faber and Marcie Dick was outstanding throughout the tournament.  “A lot of the other players followed suit in their efforts and energy by their example,” he said.

      In addition, Sidney Borrill and Carney Frahm, along with Marcie Dick, came  off the bench to provide a spark for the team.  “I was pleased with our intensity all day,” added Swenson.

The Lions will be looking to post more wins over Eagle Grove this Thursday on the road.