Kats drop Loggers to open conference play

The Columbia Falls High School volleyball team opened its conference season with a win against the Libby Lady Loggers in straight sets, 25-17, 27-25, 25-22.

Haley Belgarde led the Wildkats with 14 kills in the Sept. 12 home victory. Carla Nicosia had eight. Belgarde and Winter Kemppainen had three blocks apiece.

“Haley had a great night with those 14 kills and just one error. Carla did a great job as well,” said coach Josie Brown.

Brown said the girls were able to battle through some mistakes in the second and third matches to get the win.

Taylir Fairbank had 13 assists, while Cydeney Finberg had 10 assists and four aces serving. Kemppainen had 11 digs.

The Kats had a 10-point lead in the second set only to see Libby battle back. The Kats hung tough, however, to win the game in extra points.

The Kats are now 1-2 overall and will travel to Stillwater Christian School on Thursday night with a varsity start at 6 p.m.

Brown said she’s not sure what to expect from Stillwater — they lost some key players to graduation. Next they travel to Bonner’s Ferry, Idaho, for a Saturday tournament.