After a strong start to the season, Westonka volleyball lost to Watertown-Mayer in four sets on September 8. 

Westonka had a slow start in the first set, losing 11-25. The White Hawks gained momentum in the second set, keeping it close at 22-25. 

The third set had a strong performance from both teams, and Westonka would take the set with a score of 28-26. Ninth grader Avery Pearson had 19 assists while setting to ninth grade outside hitter Meaghan Kreiser, who brought home 15 kills.

Though they would lose in the fourth set, senior Chase Lawrence was sighted for her defensive play in the front row with four blocks. Ninth grader Bridget Budzius was also sighted for her contribution by serving at 100 percent, including two aces. 

There would be no time to rest, as the team moved on to a home tournament on Saturday at the Westonka Activity Center.  The White Hawks would meet Robbinsdale Cooper and win the game in two sets in the best of three format. Sophomore Lori Weltzin led the team by serving five aces, while ninth grader Maria Neumann had five kills. 

The White Hawks went to three sets with Sartell but ultimately lost, going 1-2. Junior libero Kendal Richie had a strong performance with 16 digs from 24 serve/receives, resulting in a 2.21 average. 

Rockford would take down the White Hawks in the next game, but it would take all three sets . Junior Maquinna Peglow led the team with four kills, while Pearson would serve at 100 percent, including three aces. 

The White Hawks would end the day playing their nextdoor neighbor, Orono. After two close sets (25- 22, 21-25), the neighbors would go to a third, where the White Hawks fell, going 1-3 against the Spartans. Lawrence would lead the team serving 100 percent with two aces. Budzius was recognized for her strong defensive play with eight digs, and Kreiser led the offense with seven kills.

White Hawks September Volleyball Schedule (games at 7 p.m.) 

• 9/15:  Home-Delano
• 9/20:  Away in Rockford
• 9/22:  Homecoming (Youth Night) Hutchinson
• 9/27:  Home-Patrick Henry
• 9/29:  Away Holy Family