Clark Fork claims NSL title

COEUR d'ALENE — The Wampus Cats are champions of the North Star League, defeating Mullan in three sets 25-13, 25-9, and 25-12.

A few jitters caused a slow start for Clark Fork but those nerves quickly went away as the Wampus Cats focused on playing their game, coach Michelle Valliere said.

"I think we were just nervous you know because it's the district game and you don't want to lose and you want to make sure you go out there and play how you know how to play," she said. "So we were just a little jittery at first but once we got a couple point lead, [the team] just played their game."

Valliere said Mullan was able to play Clark Fork a little closer in the first set, but as the Wampus Cats focused on their game, they were able to dominate in the second half of the set.

"I think Sarah [Bopp] had quite a few serves in a row that really got us a lead and [got us going]," she added.

Paige Valliere had 13 assists and three aces to lead the Wampus Cats, Eloise Shelton was high kill with 10, and Lilly Reuter had 14 digs and two blocks.

Also doing well for the Wampus Cats was Emily Myers who also had a number of key kills for Clark Fork.

In addition to winning district and punch their ticket to state, a number of Wampus Cats also were named to the all-league team. Lilly Reuter, Emily Meyers and Eloise Shelton all made all-league and Paige Valliere was named the North Star League's MVP.