Volleyball team places first in Olympia tourney silver bracket

The La Conner High School volleyball team turned in another capital performance last weekend.

Facing teams from larger schools, including undefeated 4A power Puyallup High School, the defending state 2B net champs placed first in the silver division of the Capitol City Invitational Volleyball Tournament in Olympia last Saturday, Oct. 8.

La Conner went 1-2 in pool play, including a two-set defeat to Puyallup, before rebounding to sweep three straight matches in the tourney's silver bracket, downing 2A Sequim (25-18, 25-22), 3A host Capitol (25-21, 25-19), and 3A Central Kitsap (25-18, 25-5).

"It was such a great, challenging day for our team, and I was so proud of the way they played," head coach Suzanne Marble told the Weekly News.

Senior outside hitter Ellie Marble, the reigning state 2B Player of the Year, finished with 64 kills, 86 digs and went 65 of 66 serving with a half dozen aces.

As a team, the Lady Braves served at an impressive 92% clip.

"Ellie was solid for us the entire day," said coach Marble. "Her defense was a huge part of our success. Both she and Makayla Herrera stepped up and led the team today."

Herrera, a senior middle blocker, delivered 28 kills and posted 38 digs and eight blocks.

Setter Abby Udlock fueled the attack by recording 101 assists.

Morgan Huizenga also made her presence felt. The middle blocker-outside hitter recorded 29 kills and 57 digs.

"I'm so proud of our girls and how they came together and had fun against some big strong teams," Marble said.

The team, 6-1 in regular season matches – and a perfect 4-0 in the conference – entertained league foe Darrington last night.

The Lady Braves host Mount Vernon tonight, Oct. 12, in their annual Senior Night/Dig Pink fundraiser match supporting cancer research, at 6:15 p.m. It is also an opportunity to celebrate four senior players – Herrera, Josie Harper, Kennedy Miller and Ellie Marble.

The celebrations continue Thursday when coach Marble will be honored on her 30-year career at La Conner – a tenure that includes six state titles – at 6:30 p.m. at Landy James Gym, prior to a much-anticipated setting with 4A Glacier Peak.