EBF Volleyball Captures Ottumwa Tournament Championship with Dominant Performances
Ottumwa, IA – September 21, 2024 – The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont (EBF) volleyball team, ranked 2nd in Class 2A, added another trophy to their stellar season by claiming the championship at the Ottumwa Tournament on Saturday. EBF improved their record to an impressive 18-2 with a series of commanding victories over Albia, Fairfield, DC, Mt. Pleasant, and host Ottumwa.
The Rockets’ day began with a strong start, defeating Albia in straight sets, 21-13 and 21-15. They continued their dominance with a sweep of Fairfield, 21-9 and 21-7. EBF kept their momentum going, defeating DC (21-15, 21-14) and Mt. Pleasant (21-13, 21-15), before closing the day with a tight victory over Ottumwa in the first set, 22-20, followed by a 21-15 win in the second set to seal the championship.
Leading the way for EBF was senior standout Molly Shafer, who delivered an outstanding performance with 62 kills on 91/97 attacks, while also contributing 7 assists, 23 digs, and 4 blocks. Her consistent play at the net was matched by her stellar serving, going 40-for-41 with 4 aces. Sister Kate Shafer also had a brilliant showing, tallying 88 assists, 10 kills, and 15 digs, while proving dangerous at the service line with 8 aces.
Lacey Taylor added 25 kills and 17 digs, while Kaylee Helm was instrumental in serving and defense, notching 33/39 from the service line with 3 aces and 14 digs. Other notable contributors included Ella Ray with 3 blocks and 4 digs, Chloe Lyon with 8 blocks, and Kinley Lobberecht, who recorded 10 digs and 2 aces.
Head coach Gladys Genscow expressed pride in her team’s effort throughout the tournament. “It was great to get another tournament championship today,” Genscow said. “We executed well when we controlled the pass. I am proud of how hard these girls work for each win. It was a long day with few breaks, but they stayed focused on the task at hand.”
While Genscow was pleased with the team’s overall performance, she highlighted areas for improvement as they prepare for their next match. “We will continue to focus on finding consistency with our passing game and cleaning up missed serves. Each player knows their role, and they’re working hard to increase their impact every time they’re on the court,” Genscow added.
EBF will now turn their attention to a South Central Conference matchup against Davis County on Tuesday at home, where they look to maintain their winning ways.
