Grand Rapids Christian Volleyball Triumphs in Nail-Biting 5-Set Match
UPDATE: Grand Rapids Christian’s girls volleyball team has just secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Tecumseh in a dramatic state quarterfinal match held at Gull Lake High School on October 31, 2023. The Eagles triumphed in the decisive fifth set with a score of 15-9, propelling them into the state semifinals.
This hard-fought win marks the Eagles’ third five-set match of the season, showcasing their resilience after a previous loss to Hudsonville back on September 9. Coach Amy Huisken credited this challenging schedule for preparing her team for high-pressure situations like today’s showdown. “Those big Division 1 teams make us better,” Huisken stated. “Even though we lost to Hudsonville, we’ve grown from it and are ready for this scenario.”
Grand Rapids Christian started strong, winning the first set 25-16, but Tecumseh rebounded, claiming the second set 25-20. The Eagles responded with another victory in the third set, finishing 25-20 thanks to stellar performances from senior Maddie Landheer. After a tense fourth set that ended with Tecumseh winning 25-23, the match headed to a fifth set, where the Eagles quickly established a 5-1 lead.
“The fifth set is something that we practice a lot,” said Huisken. The Eagles maintained control, with sophomore Mya McKinnon sealing the victory with her third kill in the final moments of the match.
Tecumseh, last year’s state runner-up, faced nerves in this critical match, according to head coach Morgan Skelton. “I’m sure that the nerves definitely played a factor,” she noted. Senior Emma Eldred led the Indians with 17 kills, while freshman Riley Harrah impressed with 10 kills in her first major postseason match.
The Eagles (27-8) are now set to face Detroit Country Day, the second-ranked defending Division 2 state champions, in the semifinals scheduled for Friday at noon at Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek. This marks Grand Rapids Christian’s second trip to the final four in three years, providing crucial experience for players like junior Grace Goodyke, who expressed the team’s eagerness to showcase their determination.
“We want to be back there and show everyone how exciting it is,” Goodyke said, highlighting the team’s passion as they gear up for the next challenge.
As the Eagles look to advance further in the state tournament, anticipation builds among fans and players alike. Be sure to follow the latest updates on this thrilling journey as Grand Rapids Christian aims for state glory!
