As the final whistle sounded on the Two Harbors Agates Volleyball Teams’ playoff season, coaches and players gathered to reflect on a season that was defined not just by wins but by resilience, determination, and the strength to conquer adversity. There was a lot of emotion on the court, and I was a bit touched to tears myself.
There were high hopes going into the Section 7AA First Round on Wednesday, October 25th. It was exciting to have home court in the first round of playoffs in over twenty years. “I think that our girls summed it up best when they compared it to the same level of excitement on Christmas morning as a kid,” Coach Carley Challender wrote in. “It was a continuous pinch-me moment leading up to our game.”
Unfortunately, the Greenway Raiders were able to conquer the night in three sets.
“Greenway was a very well-matched opponent for us and unfortunately, we just couldn’t recover our morale after a significant injury to one of our players. It was a tough loss and an emotional evening for everyone in the gym with us,” Coach Challender wrote in. “it was such an amazing opportunity for our school and community. I think that our success this season wasn’t really expected.”
Coach Challender posted online, “Sometimes losing isn’t the end, sometimes it’s only the beginning.” This quote perfectly encapsulates the essence of this volleyball season. Despite encountering obstacles such as injuries, illness, and unforeseen challenges, the players of the Two Harbors Agates, under the guidance of a supportive and dedicated coaching staff, have demonstrated that their love of the sport transcends the win-loss record.
Throughout the season, the Two Harbors Agates Volleyball Team exhibited exceptional perseverance. They fought fiercely on the court, showcasing that they were not just a team but a family. The bond among the players was evident, and their unwavering support for one another is what made this season truly remarkable.
The challenges they encountered only served to fortify their resolve. Injuries, illnesses, and unexpected setbacks might have temporarily slowed them down, but they emerged from each trial with increased resilience and unity. Every player, whether on the court or the bench, played an indispensable role in this journey.
“Proud is an understatement. We as coaches wouldn’t change a thing this season… other than the injuries and illnesses!” Coach Challender posted. “We as a program are better now than we’ve been in over two decades and that has a lot to do with the athletes we have the privilege to coach and the people behind the scenes, who support us. Thank you to our coaches, school, and community for showing up, cheering us on, providing meals, and for your kindness. Here’s to the season no one expected but was well deserved. This one is for you!”
There is a lot to be proud of with this year’s team. “We had two girls be named All-Conference Athletes, our outsides Rachel Bopp and Harper Powell. In addition, three seniors go Academic All-State: Harper Powell Kendal Radle, and Megan Miszowaty,” Coach Challender advised. “Our varsity went 4th overall in the section.”
As the Two Harbors Agates Volleyball Teams bid farewell to this season, they do so with heads held high. The experiences and growth they’ve gained on and off the court will undoubtedly serve them well in their future endeavors. Sometimes, the most significant triumphs are the ones that follow a challenging season, reminding us all that sometimes losing isn’t the end, sometimes it’s only the beginning.
I’ve had the honor of covering these la-dies throughout this year and I can attest the team has much to celebrate for their efforts this season. I want to thank Coach Carley Challender for her collaboration and the entire coaching staff for their dedication to the team. Congratulations on an amazing season to all of the athletes, the coaches, the family, and the fans!
Feel free to contact me at sarahwritesnsj@yahoo.com with any news we should news about!
