Cubans get past Pointers then go on to state

The team that eliminated Mineral Point in the post season will represent this area in the WIAA state volleyball tournament this week.

Cuba City, a team the Pointers handled earlier in the season in a close battle, got past the Pointers Thursday in a rematch, this time in the Division 3 Sectional semi-final.  

The Cubans then earned the state tournament berth by beating Aquinas Saturday.

The Pointers started with a win in  the first set 25-20 then lost the last three 25-18 26-24 and 25-20.

The third set could have  been the turning point when the Cubans rallied to tie the match and eventually win it 26-24. The Cubans then survived a strong test to win the fourth set and take the match.

“Our biggest focus going in was to stay calm under pressure,” said Pointer coach Kari Kabat. “We knew it was going to be a great night of volleyball with a lot of back and forth. All sets were pretty close. The third set was they key to the match. We had a significant lead in that third set.  We just needed to close that one out, and who knows what could have happened.”  

“Our girls didn't play poorly that set after getting the lead, but we definitely let them creep back in. You can't let Cuba get confidence, or it is going to be a tough battle,” Kabat added. “Even though it was not the outcome we were hoping for, I am very proud of our girls. They held their composure all night. It was a great season, and one of my favorite groups of kids I have ever coached. It will be hard to not have my seniors back in the gym next year. I am going to miss them tremendously”  

“We are happy for Cuba to have made it to State,” Kabat said. “We wish them luck, and are happy to have someone at State representing the SWAL.”  

Pointer Stat Leaders

Kills 

Laci Lindsey and Maddy Kabat - 12 each

Assists  

Eliza Ingwell - 28

Aces 

Ava Ingwell - 3, Eliza Ingwell - 2

Blocks 

Laci Lindsey and Morgan Lee - 2 each

Digs  

Maddy Kabat - 26, Bre Goninen - 24