In a post on the team’s Facebook page, co-head coach Ashley Paulson highlighted a few season goals for the Agates. Achieve 21 wins. Check! Make it to Hermantown. Check! And while the third goal, “Have a State Appearance,” was not realized, the volleyball team produced an incredible season marked by perseverance and determination, leaving them with plenty to celebrate.
“This season our girls had a goal for themselves to play at Hermantown, and this program being there was already a win for us in our minds,” said Paulson.
Two Harbors entered the Section 7AA Semi-Finals at Hermantown High School, facing Rush City High School. The Rush City Tigers took the first set, 25-15, but the Agates claimed the second in a close match, winning 25-22. This victory extended the game to four sets after Rush City captured the third, 25-21. Despite the Agates’ efforts, they couldn’t maintain the momentum in the fourth set, ultimately falling 25-8.
“To be able to take a game from them was a win for sure. It was such a surreal moment for all of us on the court to not only win that second set but to turn around and see our town behind us, celebrating with us,” said co-head coach Carley Challender. “We couldn’t be more proud of this team and of our girls for rising to the occasion.”
Two Harbors wrapped up their season with an impressive 23-5 record. According to MN Volleyball Hub, Rush City now stands at 25-3, positioning them as one of the top-ranked teams in the Polar League. They advance to play Esko, who holds a 24-5 record.
“I don’t think that Rush City expected us to come out and take a game from them, and that was a really sweet victory. They’re a great team and play at a high-caliber level and have for years,” said Challender.
Paulson agreed, adding, “It was great to see their confidence shine through that second set, and securing that win was a really big deal. We’ve been underdogs all season, and I think that heart and mentality really shone at the semifinals.”
The team indeed shone, with standout performances from several players. Senior Rachel Bopp, recently recognized for achieving 1,000 digs over her volleyball career, led the team in kills with 11 and made 12 defensive saves. Delaney Nelson, an 11th grader, added 15 defensive saves, while senior Addison Bentler contributed 11.
“This group is really special, and we’re thankful as coaches to be part of that,” said Paulson.
Challender echoed Paulson’s sentiments, expressing gratitude for the community’s support.
“The support and love we felt in that gym were really second to none, and we’re so appreciative,” she said.
Congratulations to the Two Harbors Volleyball team on a remarkable season! Thank you to the coaches and student-athletes for making it an exciting journey to follow.
