UPDATE: Ogemaw Heights has made history by claiming its first-ever regional title after a heart-stopping five-set victory against Essexville Garber, concluding with a score of 25-23, 27-25, 14-25, 21-25, 15-12. The match, held at Standish-Sterling, was a showcase of resilience and skill, captivating fans and players alike.
The thrilling conclusion came down to a nail-biting final play, where Ogemaw’s Kendel Morris executed a critical block against Garber’s star player, Jeana Lenhard. This decisive moment sent the ball back across the net, sealing the championship for the Falcons. “Everybody in the stadium held their breath,” said Ogemaw coach Heather Munson. “When it hit the floor, the girls just crumbled in a pile. That’s a feeling they’ll never forget.”
The victory propels Ogemaw Heights into the Division 2 state quarterfinals, where they will face Fremont, a team that recently triumphed over Fruitport. This match is set for 5 p.m. Tuesday at Ferris State University.
Ogemaw Heights took an early lead, winning the first two sets, but Garber responded fiercely, pushing the match to a fifth set. “We didn’t feel like we played our best,” stated Garber coach Kim Kokaly, reflecting on their journey. “But the girls got gritty and they answered our challenge to get to that fifth set.”
In the decisive fifth set, Ogemaw surged ahead after a pivotal block by Brynn Provoast, establishing a 7-2 lead. Despite Garber’s attempts to rally, including back-to-back kills from Lenhard that kept the pressure on, Ogemaw maintained its edge and ultimately clinched the historic win.
Ogemaw’s Aubrey Evans excelled during the match, delivering powerful attacks that contributed to the team’s momentum. “When she puts the pedal down, you just are not stopping her,” Munson praised.
The emotional weight of the match was palpable, as both teams left everything on the court. Garber, coming off a successful season that included their first Tri-Valley Conference Red championship since 1996, concluded their campaign with a strong performance. “They’re proud of what they’ve done and what they’ve built,” Kokaly said, reflecting on her team’s growth.
As Ogemaw Heights celebrates this monumental victory, fans and players alike are eager to see how far this historic season will take them. The Falcons are riding high and looking to capitalize on their momentum as they prepare for the upcoming challenge against Fremont.
Stay tuned for more updates as Ogemaw Heights aims for state glory!