This was the game of the year for Appleton North High School against its renowned rivals, the Kimberly Papermakers. The long battle lasted all five sets, but it felt like five years, with the scores being 25-19, 29-31, 26-24, 15-25, and 19-17. The jam-packed gym, with students from both schools, provided the energy the teams needed for victory. Their clash showed the team’s determination and skill, but Appleton North was victorious.

Appleton North had won their match against the No. 2 seed team Fond Du Lac earlier in the week, beating the odds as North was No. 3. But the odds didn’t matter as Appleton North fought hard to win their match at home against the No. 1 seed team Kimberly and advance to the state matches. With this hard-fought win, Appleton North earned a spot in the state finals and showcased the depth of their talent and the strength of their spirit. Head coach Michael Mass appraises the team for working hard and growing as a whole.

During their intensive battle, North took over, winning the first set, and Kimberly quickly took the second back. Team captain Nathan Ramus helped guide the team in the crucial third set while North was down 6 points but led them to victory. “We showed flashes early on of how great we could be,” Nathan remarks. “It was just about being consistent and putting it all together.”

Kimberly took back the fourth set and tied it up with Lightning for the last set of the match. However, middle blocker Owen Tierney delivered the last kill of the night, ending the game after many match points from both teams and leaving their audience at the end of their chairs.

The team and its supporters are excited as Appleton North prepares for the state finals. The victory over Kimberly is a testament to their hard work and dedication, and they will undoubtedly carry this momentum into their next match. This win will be Lightning’s ninth state appearance since 2002, and with the game just around the corner, it is a match you can’t miss.