The Mormon Trail volleyball team had already played top-ranked Ankeny Christian Academy twice this season.
But even though the Saints knew what to expect, there was little that they could do to stop the defending state champions.
The host Eagles hit .418 on the night and pounded 22 aces in a 25-6, 25-15, 25-10 victory over Mormon Trail in a Class 1A regional semifinal on Monday. It was the 25th straight win for ACA (35-3), which will play Riverside (27-10) in the regional final on Wednesday at Van Meter at 7 p.m.
“We were ready to play,” said ACA coach Michele Quick. “The team had a goal to come out aggressive and at fast pace.”
Carley Craighead had 14 kills, four blocks and seven aces in the victory. Setter Katie Quick racked up eight kills, 30 assists, 11 digs and 10 aces.
Macey Nehring contributed six kills and three aces for the Eagles. Riese Gjerde added nine digs.
Mormon Trail closed the season at 23-4, with three of the losses to ACA.
Riverside advanced to the regional final with a sweep at CAM. Bentley Rone had 11 kills and four aces as the Bulldogs posted a 25-21, 25-10, 25-22 win, defeating CAM for the third time this season.
“We have been watching film on them,” Quick said. “They have a stronger offense and run smooth systems so we will need to be much more aggressive and quicker.”
The Eagles will again try to rely on their potent serving. Quick leads the entire state with 142 aces, while Nehring ranks second with 102 and Craighead is third with 96.
As a team, ACA has recorded 492 aces on the season–163 more than any other team in the state.
“Our powerful serving will be our priority working on keeping them out of system, then running a fast power offense against them,” Quick said. “We have a goal and are focused, but need to stay dialed in!”
