The Jefferson County North Chargers are semi-final bound after finishing 2-1 in pool-play and winning a win-and-you're-in game in their final match-up against Oakley. The Chargers won their first match-up against Conway Springs right before losing in straight sets to Valley Heights to put them at 1-1 before entering the final match. 

Summary

The Chargers came out strong against Conway Springs in set one, taking an early 11-1 lead before things got a little close down the stretch, but JCN would close set one 25-17. The Cardinals would then snatch set two 26-24 after being down at one point, 23-18 late in the set, and the Chargers let the match win slip away. JCN would secure the final set in a close 25-22, but would be able to get it done. Taylor Schrick had a fantastic first match with six kills, an ace, and one block to lead the Chargers to the opening match victory. 

Jefferson County North would then be bested by Valley Heights in just two sets, 25-14 and 25-20. Most of it was self-inflicted wounds for the Chargers, and they would later correct their mistakes against Oakland. It was a competitive early set one for the Chargers and Mustangs at 8-8, but then Valley Heights would pull it away, scoring 17 out of the next 23 points to secure the set. The second set would also be competitive, being tied 18-18 in the late portion, but Valley Heights would up the tempo and finish off the match.

Finally, the Chargers reached the “Win-and-you're-in” match against Oakley and squeezed out a tight two-set sweep 25-22 and 25-23. Both sets were back and forth through and through, and the conclusions truly came down to the wire. Taylor Schrick stepped back up to the occasion in a big way with 12 kills and a block against the Plainsmen, while Rylee Thompson stood behind her with 9 kills as well.

Jefferson County North will take on the #1-ranked team in Class 2A and undefeated overall, Ellinwood, starting at 1:00 PM tomorrow. Broadcasting coverage will be on 103.9 KNZA.

Player Stats

Taylor Schrick: 23 kills, 1 ace, two blocks, 26 total points
Rylee Thompson: 26 kills
Carina Johnson: 11 kills, 1 ace, 1 block, 15 total points
Lindsay Martin: 10 blocks

(PLAYER STATS NOT OFFICIAL)