The Central volleyball team ended its season against Turkey Valley in a Class 1A - Region 2 first round playoff match-up on Oct. 20. The Warriors came out strong, winning set one 25-17. However, they lost the next three sets with scores of 14-25, 14-25 and 17-25.

“We just lost our energy and momentum from game one, and we struggled with serve receive in sets two and three, along with our hitting,” said head coach Kelly Erickson. “Their height and blocking slowed us down, and we were never able to get back to the energy we had early in the match.”

Despite the loss, the Warriors had an impressive night at the service line, serving 97 percent as a team and missing only two serves in four sets. Leading the team was Maci Keppler, who went a perfect 11/11, followed by Tenley Bormann at 10/10. Alivia Wiley served 8/9 with two aces and Brylee Erickson was 7/8 with two aces.

Offensively, Katie Royer led the team with 10 kills, followed by Oakley Armstrong with eight. Royer also led in assists with 16, while Erickson added 10 assists. On defense, both Royer and Erickson recorded 19 digs, with Armstrong close behind at 18 and Wiley contributing 13.

The Warriors finished their season with an overall record of 15-20, placing second in the Upper Iowa Conference small school division behind Turkey Valley.

“We had a great group of seniors who will be missed. Their leadership, work ethic and dedication set the tone for our team all season. They’ve been role models for our younger players—always the first in the gym getting everything set up, helping organize open gyms and pushing everyone to be their best. The example they set will continue to have an impact on this program for years to come,” Erickson said.

Central also had five players earn Upper Iowa Conference all-conference honors. Royer, Wiley and Erickson each received first team all-conference, while Armstrong and Ella Frieden earned second team all-conference recognition.