The Predators 18U Girls' Volleyball Club is still in celebration mode after claiming a bronze medal at the national championships.
Playing in the event in Calgary, the Predators won all three of their games on the first day of pool play and they did not lose a set in the process. After being placed in a power pool on day two, the Predators continued to roll as they beat the Blazers from Winnipeg, Slave Lake from Alberta, and CBS Puffins from Newfoundland as they extended their record to 6-0 and once again, they did not lose a set.
Now in the Tier 1 playoffs, the Predators downed Central Valley in three sets in their quarterfinal. The Predators then won the first set against the Condors from Quebec in their semi-final; however, the Condors completed a comeback to win the match in three sets.
"I thought the girls really battled hard all week," said Dave Sigvaldason, coach. "These are long days, and you have to be mentally tough at times and I thought our girls did a great job of handling the pressure of the nationals."
Then in one of the best matches of the tournament with a bronze medal on the line, the Predators got into an early hole against DVC Smash as they lost 32-30 in the first set. The Predators then won the second set, 26-24, and they capped off the event by winning the bronze medal with a 15-6 win in the third set. They were playing in Division 5 at the event following an eighth-place finish at the provincials.
"It's a huge event, with over 140 teams from across Canada, and it can be a bit overwhelming," he offered. "The girls did a great job of just being focused on their play and what they wanted to accomplish. And in the end, to walk away with a medal is a fantastic way to end the season. This group has worked so hard over the years and for them to get that reward here at nationals is really well deserved. I am so proud of our group!"
Team members are Hailey Tabak, Cassidy Dundas, Raelee Brasch, Amanda Evans, Taylor Sigvaldason, Emma Froese, Jorja Cords, Lauren Vaters, Breanna Gryba and Jaidyn Cords. Sandy Hafenbrak joined Dave as coach.
