volleyball
Lady Eagles Fall in Regional Championship
(10/31/09) Ellendale, ND - For the fourth season in a row the Faith volleyball tasted the opportunity to play in the North Central Regional championship match. Faith defeated Trinity Bible College in first round play of the double elimination tournament, but then lost to eventual champion Providence College in their second round game. Displaying resiliency Faith defeated North Central University for the third time this season in the semi-finals Saturday morning, then met up with Providence in the championship. "Our ladies did a great job on Saturday morning defeating NCU 3-0 after a difficult loss on Friday night," noted coach Nihart. "Our seniors have been in every situation possible over the course of the last 4 years and I am extremely proud of their efforts and production to get us the opportunity to win the championship, they are winners."
The Eagles, forced to play back into the championship after their loss to Providence Friday night, met rival North Central University Saturday morning. Faith had defeated the Ram's twice during the season. Faith rolled to a 20-7 lead behind strong defense and dominating net play. Senior Lindsie Poorman who had 14 kills and a .414% hitting mark led the way in the first set for a 25-13 win. Faith continued their prowess on both the offensive and defensive side for 25-15 and 25-22 final set wins and the match. "We played great during that entire match. It was great for us coaches to just watch our ladies execute. It was a total team effort and really gave us confidence going into the championship match, we wanted another opportunity to play Providence," noted Nihart.
Riding the 3 wins against NCU, Faith looked to avenge their loss to Providence and claim the championship. The Eagles captured set one 27-25 by digging the taller Providence team in the right spots. Faith led 23-22 when Providence made substitutions. The Freemen were able to get a side out after a ball hit the net and fell on the Eagles side knotting the score at 23. In dramatic fashion Providence gained the set win at 25-23. Faith then lost energy and momentum going into the 3rd and 4th sets losing 25-14 and 25-15 and the opportunity to go to the National Tournament in Florida. The Eagles were led by freshmen middle hitter Megan Standley with 7 kills and senior Poorman adding 9. "I know our ladies are disappointed in the loss but we had a tremendous season fighting through injuries, illness and other setbacks. Megan (Standley) came back from a foot injury and was lights out during the past two weeks, just a representation of how hard these ladies worked. Coach Erin (Davis) and I are very proud of their testimony and work ethic. In our minds they are champions," said Nihart.
Seniors Lindsie Poorman and Crystal Kane were selected as 1st team all region players. Senior Megan Turbett was selected as the North Central Region co-winner Libero of the Year. Each of the players will be eligible for NCCAA All-American status. Freshman Katherine Michalski was a 2nd Team All Region Selection.