Falcons Fall In First Round Of State Tournament

Although it was a run that ended all too early for Elkhorn Valley's volleyball team, it was an experience that will never be forgotten.

The Falcons made their first trip to state in nine years, taking on top-seeded Meridian at Lincoln East on Thursday night. Both teams had their high points, but it was Meridian that was able to come out on top in three sets, 25-17, 25-15, 25-14, to eliminate the Falcons from the state tournament.

The first set started with a 3-1 run for Elkhorn Valley. However, Meridian tied it up at four, leading to a back and forth battle between the squads until a 3-0 run made it 12-9 in favor of the Mustangs. They then took control to close out the set.

In set two, Meridian controlled the pace the entire way. They took a 7-1 lead before Elkhorn Valley was able to find space and counter, but it was too late. The third set again started in the Falcons' favor as they went up 5-1, thanks in part to a couple of Amber Miller aces. However, Meridian battled back to take a 9-8 lead before going on a furious run to close out the game.

Hannah Ollendick led the Falcon attack on the night with a game-high nine kills. Sierra Rystrom added four more and Olivia Nall added three. Miller's serving was strong as she finished with the two aces.  

​The loss ends the Falcons season at 17-12.