The Ankeny Christian Academy volleyball team is on a mission to defend its Class 1A state title.
The top-ranked Eagles took their first step toward reaching their goal with a 25-10, 25-6, 25-11 victory over visiting Twin Cedars in a regional quarterfinal on Wednesday. It was the 24th straight win for ACA, which raised its record to 34-3.
The Sabers closed out the season with a 12-15 mark.
“We were focused tonight and have been dialed in as we approached the postseason,” said ACA coach Michele Quick. “We can not take any team lightly and know we need to keep calm, but play fast and aggressive and in control!”
Carley Craighead led the Eagles with 14 kills and two blocks. Katie Quick racked up nine kills, 26 assists, seven digs and three aces.
Macey Nehring contributed five kills and had six of the team’s 17 aces. Riese Gjerde had 11 digs, and Anna Weathers added nine.
ACA will host Mormon Trail (23-3) in a regional semifinal on Monday. The Saints outlasted Seymour in five sets on Wednesday to advance.
Mormon Trail defeated Seymour for the sixth straight time after losing to the Warriors on Aug. 31. The Saints’ other two losses came to ACA, including one in the Blue Grass Conference championship on Oct. 12.
“The team remains hungry and poised as we prepare for what we want to happen in the next few weeks,” Quick said. “We’re taking time to reflect on God’s word and allowing that focus to calm our hearts and give the glory to Him.”
