ELY— The Timberwolves cruised through the first two rounds of the Section 7A volleyball playoffs this past week, as the team continued to show the skills that earned them top seed in the run-up to the state tourney. They were set to face off against South Ridge on Wednesday night in Hibbing as the Timberjay went to press. The winner of that game will head to the section championship on Saturday.
The Wolves earned their semi-final berth against the Panthers after routing Nashwauk-Keewatin in straight sets this past Friday, 25-19, 25-16, and 25-15.
“We had a slower start to the match tonight, but we made great progress as the sets went on,” said Ely Head Coach Megan Wognum.
Senior Kellen Thomas had a huge night for the Wolves, posting 14 kills, three blocked shots, four digs and three aces. Junior Rachel Coughlin added six kills, 15 digs, and four blocks to the mix, while her sister Kate posted seven kills, and 11 digs. Senior setter Katrina Seliskar posted 38 assists and three digs while senior Raven Sainio added six kills and two digs. Junior Madeline Kallberg added three kills while senior Charly Flom added two kills and four digs.
“I am so proud of how hard these girls continue to work this season,” said Wognum.
It was much the same story last Wednesday night, Oct. 27, as the Wolves cruised to a straight set victory against Mt. Iron-Buhl, 25-14, 25-11, and 25-15.
“The girls showed up to play tonight and I am so proud,” said Wognum after the contest. Rachel Coughlin led the way offensively for Ely, posting 11 kills along with 12 digs. Thomas was right behind, with ten kills along with six digs, three blocks and three aces. Seliskar had a big night serving, posting seven aces along with her 35 set assists and four digs. Kate Coughlin added six kills and seven digs, while Kallberg added eight kills and two digs.