Medford Claims Subsection Volleyball Championship
Medford volleyball won the Section 1A West Subsection championship Thursday night over perennial powerhouse Bethlehem Academy, their second win over the Cardinals on the season. The Tigers advance to Saturday's section final against Mabel-Canton at 1:00 pm with the broadcast on Power 96 radio and the Power 96 app.
Bethlehem Academy did not go down without a fight, pushing Medford to overtime in the third set before the Tigers scored the 27-25 win to begin the celebration. Medford took the opening set 25-19 and set two 25-21.
Kinsey Cronin, Emma Kniefel and Rachael Luebbe led a balanced Medford hitting attack, with Morgan Langeslag setting the ball to each numerous times. Kiley Nihart played a solid defensive match.
Medford (26-5) has never qualified for the state tournament. Mabel-Canton (30-5) went to state in 2000 and 2001. Bethlehem Academy was the defending section champ.
Saturday features three section championship matches at the Mayo Civic Center. Lakeville North and South duel for the 1AAA title, followed by the Tigers-Cougars match and ending with Kasson-Mantorville against Lake City in 1AA.