The Niles North Girls varsity volleyball team took on Regionals in late October after wrapping up their regular season, finishing fourth in their conference with seven wins and three losses, and overall 14 wins and 25 losses.

In the first round of the Regional playoffs, the Vikings triumphed over the Rolling Meadows Mustangs, winning two out of the three sets, with a score of 28-26 in the final set. 

Following their first round victory, the team then went on to face the Lake Park Lancers in the second round two days later, and were defeated in two sets.

“We showed up to Regionals ready to play,” senior Talia Johnson said. ‘I think Rolling Meadows fought us well. But in the end we took it with grit and heart. It was a tough game.”

For the second round, Johnson continued, “We showed up with the same energy for Lake Park, but they had us figured out. We played our hearts out. They were just too good.”

Sophomore Savanah Thomas adds, “Regionals was an emotional roller coaster. After winning the first game we were all so happy and thrilled that we made it this far. Even though we lost the second game I’m gonna hold onto this memory and feeling and bring back a regional win next.”

Despite the rough ending to Regionals, the Vikings reflect positively on their experiences as a team throughout the season. 

¨I wouldn’t be able to point at a particular win or play and say that was my favorite moment,¨ Johnson said. ¨In truth, it was the moments in between. On the bus rides, laughing and singing. On the sidelines, hollering for each other. Watching our sisters on JV and cheering them until we were hoarse. Those were the real moments.¨

Johnson adds, ¨At the beginning of the season we struggled. By the end we were going toe to toe with some of the best teams l’ve seen. I am so proud of my teammates. The effort they put in was amazing. This season has been one of the best seasons l’ve had so far.¨