After winning 25-14, 25-8, Fatima (24-8-1) needed a couple of extra points to put Saturday’s Class 2, District 7 semifinal away for good with a 27-25 win over Russellville. The win put Fatima in position to play Cole Camp on Tuesday for the district championship.

“We came out strong in the first two sets, once again holding their fast tempo,” said Coach Ellie Crede. “Our defense read the ball well, while our offense made intelligent decisions to secure each point.

The third set proved to be a test of resilience with Russellville taking a 24–21 lead late in the game.

Freshman and new varsity addition Camryn Muenks stepped up to the service line, delivering key serves that tied the score. “The teamwork and composure displayed in that moment were outstanding,” said Crede. “Despite the pressure, the girls remained steady in their form, communicated well, and continued to play a smart, strategic game to close out the set — and the match — with confidence.”

Fatima was the top seed, earning a first-round bye in the tournament.

Alayna Backes had a stellar match at the net with 17 kills and a block to go with a team-high 12 digs. Lily Kempker, who had seven digs, six kills, and three aces, continued to lead in the assists column with 33. Leah Muenks added 10 digs and three aces, and Kaylee Berhorst posted 10 digs and three aces.

Fatima was solid at the service line with 15 aces.

Other stats: aces: Backes (4), L. Muenks (3), Addison Lehmen (2); kills: Gracie Dickneite (7), Kempker (6), Lehmen (6), Elizabeth Voss (3); blocks: Abby Rogers and Voss (1 each); digs: L. Muenks, Berhorst (10 each), Kempker, Lehmen (7 apiece), C. Muenks (4), Addisyn Nilges (2); assists: Backes (4), Voss (2).

On Monday, the Lady Comets defeated New Bloomfield, 25-10, 25-12, 25-3. “This match challenged us to maintain our quick tempo from start to finish,” said Crede. “The girls did an excellent job staying disciplined and consistent.”

Stats: aces: Kempker (12), Backes, Annabelle Horton (5 each), L. Muenks (2); kills: Backes (13), Dickneite (5), Lehmen (4), Nilges, Rogers, Kempker (3 each); blocks: Voss, Kempker (1 each); digs: Backes (7), Kempker, Horton (5 apiece), L. Muenks (3); assists: Kempker (26), Berhorst (2).