Chris Ferguson, Campus Carrier Asst. Sports Editor

Lia Bista | CAMPUS CARRIER

The team celebrates a successful point against Oglethorpe College in the SAA Quarterfinals. The Vikings go on to win the SAA championship match against Birmingham Southern College.

This past Saturday, the women’s volleyball team fell to the Emory Eagles after a well-fought match in the Division III regional championship final. Despite this, the Vikings made team history by making it this far in the season. In order to get to this point, the Vikings bested other top teams in the SAA to solidify their shot at the regional title. 

The Vikings put on an outstanding performance against the Eagles with notable performances by a handful of players. Senior Hannah Kate Thompson had 30 of 34 total assists. Junior Sarah Sprague had 10 kills and 4 digs. Sophomore Carson VanCampen had 3 blocks and 9 kills, with a .273 kill percentage. Senior Elizabeth Ragland had 14 of 48 total digs. 

Although the team was able to garner some impressive statistics, they fell just short in each of their three sets. The Eagles were able to make several key blocks and plays which allowed them to narrowly win each set. 

In a press conference after the game, Head Coach Caitlyn Moriarty and Senior Elizabeth Ragland shared their reflections on the game and the season. 

“I’m so proud of their fight,” said Moriarty. “This is a place in the NCAA tournament we’ve never been to. Making this championship with mostly freshman and sophomores is just exciting. We’ve talked a lot about the girls’ growth on and off the court, as well as confidence and learning skills that are going to make them better women one day. This is what I am most proud of this season.” 

Ragland shared her thoughts on being part of the first senior class to make it to the regional championship final. 

“It’s so special, and again we’re just so thankful to have made it this far,” said Ragland. “We really put in so much work since last January when we started off our spring season. We knew we wanted to give this season our all.” 

Looking back on the season, the team had an impressive year, finishing first in conference with a 14-0 record and a 30-7 record overall. These records are particularly remarkable due to the fact that there were only three seniors leading the team this year. 

The young talent shined this season for Viking volleyball, which shows potential for years to come. This year’s team had a strong season which could pave the way for a successful future.