Whitefish volleyball tops Wildkats for homecoming victory

The Whitefish Bulldog volleyball team took down the Columbia Falls Wildkats last Thursday, in the homecoming rivalry game.  

The Dogs and Cats fought in a five-set battle, with the Dogs eventually winning the fifth set 15-7.  

“I was really proud of them for coming back” Whitefish Head Coach Addy Connelly said.  

After a strong start in the first set, the team struggled with connecting passes in the next two.  

“It all came together in game four” Connelly said. “To come out after battling back and getting that win was great growth for our crew.” 

She said the win was sweeter due to the tough loss the team experienced last week in Polson, where they were defeated in five sets. 

Junior setter Allie Shors led the team in digs with 16 and in assists with 23. Connelly also highlights play from junior Annabelle Barrile and freshman Abby Brooks, who had nine kills each. Sophomore Hannah Szady led the team with three aces, and sophomore Avery Orme had four blocks. The Bulldogs are currently serving at 95%. 

“It was a pretty well-rounded contribution,” Connelly said. “Our serving program wide was really consistent that night.”  

Connelly was impressed and appreciative of the fan support.  

“It’s been a really supportive crowd this year and so it’s fun to play at home” she said. “The student crowd has really shown up.”  

The Whitefish Bulldogs are currently ranked third in the Northwest A conference, trailing the Polson Pirates and Big Fork Valkyries.  

Connelly is excited for the team to continue to build on what they have been doing. She is also set on giving everyone opportunities to play. 

The Bulldogs travel to Butte this weekend for the annual Blocktober Classic Tournament, a multi-day, multi-class volleyball tournament.  

The full season schedule can be found on the Whitefish High School Athletics page.