By BUCTH HARMON
It was a season to remember for the Fowler volleyball team.
Led by a strong group of seniors, the team accomplished plenty this season. The Eagles finished with over 30 wins, won a conference title for what may be the first time ever, won a district championship, and reached the final round of the regional tournament.
“We had nine seniors this year, and they provided us with a lot of senior leadership,” coach Patty Feldpausch said. “Their leadership carried us this year.” This year’s senior class included Monica Buhr, Emily Esch, Sydney Feldpausch, Allie Hufnagel, Danielle Piggott, Quincy Platte, Kara Schafer, Aubrey Snyder, and Tori Wirth.
The Eagles also received strong contributions from the junior class that included Kallie Feldpausch, Kendra Koenigsknecht, Maddie Koenigsknecht, Danielle Schafer, Taylor Schmitt, and Kathy Smith.
“We had 15 kids on the team this year, and they all worked hard,” Feldpausch said. “They really wanted it this year. We also have a lot of multi-sport athletes, and I believe that helps. They have experienced a lot of success. In softball, they made it to the state semifinals, and in basketball, they won a district. They know what it takes to win, and they want to win.”
A total team effort was key for the Eagles, who defeated Muskegon Catholic Central in the regional semifinal before falling to Sacred Heart Academy in the regional championship match. “Offensively, we had a balanced attack,” Feldpausch said. “Aubrey Snyder and Quincy Platte were some of our big attackers and a big part of our game. Kara Schafer was our setter and Tori Wirth was our libero, and they did a real nice job. Allie Hufnagel and Monica Buhr also did a real nice job blocking.”
The team effort resulted in an elusive conference title. “We think it was the first conference title we ever won, but we do not know for sure,” Feldpausch said. “Someone said they think we won one in the 70s and they are looking in to it, but we don’t know for sure.”
Regardless, the season was one to remember for Fowler volleyball. “This year has been a great, great year,” Feldpausch said. “We’ve had a great group of girls who worked real hard together.”