As might be expected the 7B Western Conference volleyball all-star selections were dominated by the top three teams, Thompson Falls, Plains and Eureka.

Thompson Falls, the winner of the 7B Conference tournament and top seed to the Divisional tournament in Anaconda, placed five players on the All-tournament team, including a pair of first teamers. 

Plains, which was vastly improved this year and finished as the number three seed in the conference, had three players chosen, including one of three all-conference players who also made the All-State team, senior Teagan Saner, who emerged as a frontline force for the Trotters. 

The other two All-staters from 7B were from regular season champion Eureka, which lost to T Falls for the first time all year during the district tourney at Thompson Falls. 

Lady Lions players Annie and Sophie Vaughn were both named to the All-state team.  Two of their teammates, Aubrey Casazza and Smantha Day were selected the first and second team All-Conference squad. 

Thompson Falls had a pair of first-team all-conference players, senior Sarah Koskela and junior Gabi Hannum.  Joining those two from Thompson Falls were second-teamers Addi Palmer, Olivia Fitchett and Addy Deal. 

T Falls finished third at the Western Division tournament, just missing out on a trip to State. 

In addition to Saner, Plains was also represented by senior Alexis Deming, who is a two-time defending state discus champion, and sophomore Claire Lakko, who routinely led the Trotters in assists and was a force on the front line. 

Mission High placed two players on the all-conference team, including first-team selection Alecia Steele and second team pick Cora Matt. 

    Plains sophomore volleyball standout Claire Lakko dives for a loose ball earlier this year, one of the reasons she was chosen to the Western 7B all-conference team.  (File photo)
  

 

    Thompson Falls senior Sarah Koskela was chosen as a first team Western conference all-star, shown here serving against Plains earlier this year.  (File photo)