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The wait is over and tonight 4th ranked Pella will battle 5th ranked, defending state champion Marion in the opening round of the Class 3A State Volleyball Tournament at the US Cellular Center in Cedar Rapids. This is Pella’s fourth straight appearance in the state tournament but they’re still looking for their first win. Coach Bob Fessler says this team has been tested numerous times throughout the season but each time they’ve found ways to succeed and he says that’s what makes this team confident.

“There’s something to be said for a team that faces adversity, meets the challenge and comes out successfully. That’s what our kids have done down the stretch and that’s why we’re still playing. When one player struggles, another is right there to pick them up”

Fessler says they know they’ll be challenged tonight by the defending state champs, but he says they’re looking forward to that challenge.

“ They’re a very similar team to us. They have an All State setter, a strong attacker and they play aggressive defense. I think the team that is able to focus on and execute what they’re trying to do will have the upper hand. It should be a great match. Our girls will definitely be challenged, but it’s a challenge we’re more than ready to take on”

Tonight’s match is scheduled for 7:15pm with the winner playing either Sioux City Heelan or Dallas Center Grimes Friday at 1pm in the semifinals. You can hear live coverage with Jamie Brockman and Wynne Veenstra on 92.1 FM KRLS starting with pre match coverage around 7pm. Due to state regulations the broadcast will not be streamed live on kniakrls.com.

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