UPDATE: In a stunning display of talent, Ada-Borup-West’s Malayna Syverson propelled the Cougars to a decisive victory against Red Lake Falls in the Minnesota Section 8A semifinals, winning in straight sets: 25-17, 25-10, 25-12. This pivotal match took place on Tuesday night at Lysaker Gymnasium in Crookston, Minnesota, marking a significant step toward the championship.
Syverson, a formidable 6-foot-4 middle blocker committed to North Dakota State, showcased her skills with 22 kills, including an impressive 10 kills in the opening set alone. “We just have to put a lot of effort in,” Syverson stated in a postmatch interview on Your Live Event. “We’ve built as a team since the Sacred Heart matchup, and so have they. We’ll lock in and practice and get to the game.”
Ada-Borup-West improved its record to 22-8, following a rigorous regular season schedule. The Cougars will face East Grand Forks Sacred Heart in the section championship at 7 p.m. on Friday in Crookston. Earlier this season, Ada-Borup-West handed Sacred Heart their only loss, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch.
Red Lake Falls, which previously eliminated the defending section champion, Kittson County Central, ends their season at 24-7. Despite nine ties in the opening set, Ada-Borup-West seized control with Syverson leading the charge. “I think right away we came out with some nerves,” admitted Syverson. “If you’re not nervous, something’s wrong. We pulled it together and built some momentum.”
In addition to Syverson’s standout performance, Morgan Engel, also committed to NDSU, contributed significantly with 14 kills. The Cougars established an early lead in the second set, starting 4-0 and never looking back. By the third set, the momentum was firmly in their favor, with the teams initially tied at 2-2 before Ada-Borup-West surged ahead.
As excitement builds for the championship match on Friday, all eyes will be on Syverson and the Cougars as they seek to claim the title. Will they continue their winning streak against the formidable Sacred Heart team? Stay tuned for updates as the action unfolds!
