When new Ronan volleyball coach Naomi Mock came into the

program, she infused a new sense of positive thinking that revived

the Maidens.

When new Ronan volleyball coach Naomi Mock came into the program, she infused a new sense of positive thinking that revived the Maidens.

"I just want the program to succeed," Mock said. "I really came into it wanting to have the girls love the game."

Ronan would finish the season in third place in the Northwestern A Conference with a 4-4 record. The Maidens also put up a fight in their rivalry with conference power Polson, winning games in both their matches against the Lady Pirates.

Perhaps the Maidens saved the best for last in divisionals as they defeated traditional power Whitefish in the opening round of the postseason tournament.

Their fans, players and coaches brought a high energy to the game and the tradition of six state championships. Ronan never blinked. They handed Whitefish a 3-2 defeat with scores of 25-16, 25-21, 17-25, 19-25, 15-7.

"We did our job," Mock said. "We had a lot of hit at-tempts and digs."

This year's success opens the door for next season, where the Maidens expect more improvement and a step in the right direction as they'll compete in their new district in Class B.