Craig’s volleyball season came to an on Oct. 20 when they fell to Milton in the regional final, 3 games to 1.

The Cougars finished the season in third place in the Big Eight Conference with a 7-2 record. Overall, their record was 36-11.

Milton, the #4 seed in the sectional, challenged Craig with their height and defense.

Amanda Carlson, one of the senior captains, said, “We did everything we could. They (Milton) were just really good blockers.”

“They are a team with a lot of depth,” said head coach Blake Budrow.

Taylor Salmon, another captain, added, “We gave it 100%.” 

Despite their effort, “We just didn’t play to our potential,” said Carlson.

Playing in the crowded and cramped Milton High School gym, the senior-dominated home team challenged Craig with their height and defense.

Still, the match was a close battle between two strong teams. They split the first two games, with Milton winning the first, 25-18, and Craig taking the second 25-20.

In their game two win, Craig got into a rhythm with clean sets and powerful kills that found open spots on the floor.

In that game, the Cougars communicated and hit well. “Our best games are when we talk the most,” said Carlson. “Our hitting percentage is always a key to playing well.”

But Craig also committed unforced errors, which prevented them from establishing consistent runs.

The Redhawks won the final two games to advance to the sectional, where they lost to #1 seeded Burlington 3-0. Burlington won its second straight state championship on Saturday, Nov. 3, defeating Oconomowoc 3 games to 1.

The senior captains see a bright future for the Cougars.

Salmon, who will join Carlson on the volleyball team at Madison Edgewood College, said, “Next year we have great depth in setters and hitters.”

Carlson agreed. “The freshmen have potential.” They are a group led by Britten Bertagnoli.

The Cougars entered the playoffs as a #5 seed in their sectional and opened on Oct. 18 at home against Elkhorn, seeded 12th.

They won 3-0, taking each match by scores of 25-10, 25-10 and 25-14.

Like Milton, Elkhorn’s defense and size gave the Cougars some early trouble.

“Their length and defense challenged us, but once we figured out how to hit around them, we were in good shape,” said Budrow.

“The girls played great. They were ready to go,” he said.