Ward leads focused Bulldogs past Hawks

RATHDRUM — After falling in a five-set marathon in the first meeting, Sandpoint earned some payback, sweeping Lakeland 25-22, 25-19, 25-14 on Tuesday night in 4A Inland Empire League volleyball in Rathdrum.

The Bulldogs (13-7, 1-2 4A IEL) broke through for their first league win against the Hawks (12-18, 1-3 4A IEL), led by Kaitlan Ward with 21 digs and solid serve-receive from the back row. The Bulldogs have put together solid stretches in the past, and showed they’re dangerous when locked in.

“I’m really proud of this team tonight. They came to compete and kept their focus and composure. We served tough, passed well, took good hard swings at the ball and put up some solid blocks,” said Bulldogs head coach Erin Roos. “It is so nice to see them put an entire match together. Solid contributions from everyone, and Kaitlan was a rock star in the back row with digs and spectacular passing.”

Sandpoint hosts Moscow on Thursday for Senior Night.