Belding Volleyball Triumphs Over Central Montcalm in District Opener

Belding High School’s volleyball team secured a decisive victory against Central Montcalm in the opening round of the Division 2 district playoffs on October 16, 2023. The Black Knights emerged victorious with a score of 3-1, marking their third consecutive win over the Hornets in postseason play.

The match showcased the intense rivalry between the two teams, which have faced each other multiple times since 2023. Belding’s head coach, Kelly Groenenboom, emphasized the importance of focusing on their own play rather than the opponent’s strategy. “We know that Central Montcalm is a very scrappy team, and they really frustrated our attack,” Groenenboom stated. “I felt like we had to really kind of dig deep mentally.”

The Hornets initially took control of the match, winning the first set 25-19. Belding managed to regroup and launched a comeback in the second set, with the score tied at crucial moments before clinching it 26-24. Mia Hill played a pivotal role in this turnaround, proving instrumental in the Black Knights’ offensive efforts.

As the match progressed, both teams displayed impressive skill and determination. The Hornets were ahead 20-19 in the third set, but a four-point run by the Black Knights sealed that set at 25-20. A strong service run by freshman Emma Johnson in the fourth set helped Belding secure their victory, culminating in a kill from senior Rylee Mooney.

The match statistics highlighted the contributions of several players. Ava Flynn led Belding with 15 kills, followed closely by Abigail Jakeway with 11. Lexie Feuerstein provided 31 assists, while Kailey Meyers anchored the defense with 24 digs.

In reflecting on the game, Groenenboom expressed pride in her team’s resilience. “I think when you have players that embrace everyone on the team, it makes it really easy for players to step up in moments like that,” she said. The Black Knights’ unity and teamwork were evident in their performance.

Central Montcalm’s head coach, Taryn Muilenburg, acknowledged the challenges her team faced during the match, citing the mental aspect of the sport as a significant factor. “The unfortunate part of volleyball is that it’s a very mental sport, and that got to us a little bit,” Muilenburg noted. Despite the loss, she praised her players for their adaptability and determination throughout the season.

The defeat marked an end to Central Montcalm’s season, but Muilenburg remains optimistic about the future. “The girls that didn’t see a lot of playing time are hungry. They want to be on the court,” she stated, highlighting the dedication of her players.

Following this win, the Black Knights advanced to the district semifinal against Portland, which took place after this report was finalized. This victory not only boosts their confidence but also underscores their commitment to a strong postseason performance.