columbuscsd

The Columbus Wildcat volleyball team is into the regional semifinals tonight when they travel to Durant to meet the Wilton Beavers. The Wildcats come into the match with an overall record of 12-13 following a five set opening round playoff win over Pekin, and a four set win over Durant in the second round. For the year, the Wildcats are led by Olivia Carrier with 193 kills, fourth most in the Superconference North Division. Jobie Lekwa’s 236 assists are best on the team and fifth in the conference. Defensively, Emma Milder leads the Wildcats with 297 digs, second in the conference.

Wilton enters play with an overall record of 30-3. They were champions of the River Valley Conference this season and are ranked No. 2 in class 2A in the latest poll from the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union. The Beavers had a bye in the opening round of the postseason before sweeping Louisa-Muscatine in the second round. On the year, Wilton is led by Kelsey Drake with 297 kills, most in the River Valley. Drake also leads the Wilton defense with 302 digs, second in the RVC. Ella Caffery is best on the team, best in conference and seventh in 2A with 676 assists.

These two teams met early this year with Wilton sweeping Columbus. In 14 matches dating back to 2008, the Wildcats have not been able to beat Wilton. The winner of this match moves within one match of the state tournament in Cedar Rapids. Action begins tonight at 7p.m. at Durant High School.