Sandpoint volleyball loses to Lakeland in district title match

RATHDRUM — SHS volleyball saw its season come to an end Thursday night with a four set loss to Lakeland in the 4A Region 1 title match.

The Hawks won 25-15, 25-14, 19-25, 25-14.

Head coach Karen Alsager said her team just couldn't get in a groove.

"I think if we would have came out and passed better the first part of the evening, I think we would have been able to swing away," she said, "but since we couldn't pass as well as we would have liked to, that impacts everything ... we couldn't answer their firepower with firepower."

Alsager said Lakeland deserved to win and she wished them luck at the 4A state tourney.

"I think when the other team makes it very clear that they are to be the team that moves on, at that point you end with respect," she said. "I've never seen Lakeland play so well. They earned it tonight."

Gabby Hicks led the Bulldogs with 19 kills, 13 digs and one ace. Kaylee Banks had 28 assists, Kinzie Ward tallied 15 digs and an ace, Bella Phillips racked up three blocks and Lauren Breuner added an ace.

Sandpoint finishes the season with a 5-11 record.

Alsager said this team holds a special place in her heart, especially the seven seniors who have been great role models to the younger players in the program.

"I think the thing that sets this team apart is just how well they get along," she said. "Another season at Sandpoint High School with no drama, kids that support each other, kids that respect each other and kids that play for each other. It's just astounding to me because it makes it so much easier to be a part of it. So when you have to say goodbye to them, it's truly difficult to say goodbye to them ... It's hard to see such quality seniors go."