Panthers earn District 11 runner-up
The Rugby Lady Panthers battled Bottineau for the title of district champions on October 31 and came in runner-up. Although Rugby played well, Bottineau played better winning 3-0.
The Lady Panthers went into the district tournament with the motto “Play with your heart” and they did.
“They passed well,” said Rugby Coach Jessica Fritz. “Their heads were in the game.”
The Lady Panthers defeated Westhope-Newburg in the first match of the tournament held in Dunseith. The last game was hair-raising as Westhope-Newburg earned 25 points, but Rugby was already ahead of their game with 27 points and claimed the victory.
Abbey Paul, Kenzie Cameron, Laura Fritel, Aubrey Hovland Kristen Mundahl, Gabby Samuda, and Allison Volk played well against W-N.
In the second round Rugby took on Velva and it took five games to defeat them 3-2. Rugby lost the first match 19 to Velva’s 25 but came back ready to play in the second game and defeated Velva 25-16. Velva came on strong in the third game beating Rugby 25-20. Rugby retaliated in the fourth game and won 25-14. In the final game Rugby defeated Velva 15-9
“The girls played with a lot of enthusiasm,” said Fritz.
The Rugby fans must have been enthusiasti, too, as they came home with a “Spirit Award”.
In the final round of games, Rugby lost to Bottineau in all three games, but played with heart until the very end.
Senior Abbey Paul and junior Aubrey Hovland each came home from the tournament with All-District honors.
The Lady Panthers are looking forward to Region 6 competition in Minot Monday, November 7, Tuesday, November 8, and Thursday, November 10. They will be paired with Mohall-Lansford-Sherwood for their first set of games.
“If they stay confident, keep their heads in the game and play with their hearts they will do well,” said Fritz.
The North Dakota State Volleyball meet has been moved to the FargoDome in Fargo. It will be held on Thursday, November 17 – Saturday, November 19.