Minot High and All Higher Seeds Progress at WDA Tournament | News, Sports, Jobs

Excitement Builds at the 2024 WDA Volleyball Tournament

The 2024 Western Dakota Association (WDA) regional volleyball tournament kicked off on November 14 at Minot High School, bringing together some of the best high school volleyball teams in the region. With a thrilling atmosphere and passionate fans, the quarterfinals showcased intense competition and set the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating tournament.

Local Rivalry: Minot High vs. Minot North

One of the most anticipated matches of the day featured a local rivalry between the #3 Minot High Majettes and the #6 Minot North team. The two teams entered the match with a balanced 1-1 record from their regular-season encounters, adding an extra layer of excitement to the quarterfinal showdown.

The Majettes, playing on their home court, demonstrated remarkable focus and composure, overcoming the high energy from the Minot North players and their enthusiastic supporters. The match concluded with a decisive sweep for Minot High, with scores of 25-20, 25-22, and 25-12.

Leading the charge for the Majettes was Jayda Schall, who delivered an impressive performance with 13 kills. Kynsli Gilmore contributed significantly as well, adding ten kills at the net. Leah Walter, Sydney Aberle, and Eve Knutson also made their mark, with Walter recording nine kills and Aberle contributing three.

Defensively, Raigan Terrel shone with 13 digs, while Mya Bogden and Nicole Couture added 11 and eight digs, respectively. The Majettes also showcased their blocking skills, with Aberle, Schall, and Knutson each contributing a block. Terrel’s serving prowess was evident as she recorded three aces, with Couture and Deschamp each adding two.

With this victory, Minot High advanced to face Bismarck High in the semifinals, scheduled for November 15 at 7 p.m., with hopes of continuing their championship pursuit.

Bismarck High Overcomes Jamestown

In another quarterfinal match, the #2 Bismarck High Demons faced off against the #7 Jamestown Blue Jays. Jamestown entered the match with aspirations of an upset, and the early stages of the game reflected their determination as they fought to a 1-1 tie. However, Bismarck High quickly regained control, winning the match with scores of 25-21, 19-25, 25-21, and 25-20.

Bismarck High’s victory set them up for a highly anticipated semifinal clash against Minot High, promising an exciting matchup between two strong teams.

Century and Dickinson Advance with Ease

The top-seeded Century Patriots faced the #8 Williston Coyotes in a match that showcased their dominance. Century made quick work of Williston, winning decisively with scores of 25-11, 25-11, and 25-14. Their commanding performance secured their place in the semifinals, where they would face the #4 Dickinson Midgets.

Dickinson also had a strong showing in their quarterfinal match against the #5 Bismarck Legacy. The Midgets secured a sweep with scores of 25-13, 25-21, and a nail-biting 29-27 in the final set, showcasing their resilience and determination.

Looking Ahead: Semifinals and Championship

With the quarterfinals concluded, the stage is set for the semifinals on November 15. The matchups promise to be thrilling, with Minot High facing Bismarck High and Century taking on Dickinson. Each team will be vying for a spot in the championship match on November 16, where the coveted WDA title will be up for grabs.

As the tournament progresses, fans can expect high-energy matches filled with skillful plays, strategic maneuvers, and the unwavering spirit of high school athletics. The excitement surrounding the WDA tournament is palpable, and the coming days will undoubtedly deliver unforgettable moments for players and fans alike.