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Chisago Lakes was just one set away from punching its ticket to the state volleyball tournament, but Hill-Murray had other plans in the Section 4AAA championship match on Wednesday, November 4.

After taking a commanding two-set lead over the top-seeded Pioneers, the third-seeded Wildcats couldn't quite finish the job, falling in a heartbreaking five-set thriller, 29-27, 25-14, 21-25, 17-25, 11-15, at Hill-Murray High School.

The loss brought an end to an impressive postseason run for Chisago Lakes, which came this close to earning a state tournament berth in Rachel Houle's first season as head coach.

Chisago Lakes came out ready to play against the Pioneers, battling through a back-and-forth opening set that needed extra points to decide a winner. The Wildcats eventually prevailed 29-27, giving themselves an early advantage.

That momentum carried into the second set, where Chisago Lakes turned in its most dominant performance of the night. The Wildcats rolled to a convincing 25-14 victory, putting Hill-Murray on the ropes and moving within one set of a section championship.

But the Pioneers weren't ready to see their season end. Hill-Murray responded with a 25-21 victory in the third set to keep its championship hopes alive before taking control of the fourth set, winning 25-17 to force a decisive fifth.

With a trip to state hanging in the balance, the Wildcats battled to the finish, but Hill-Murray completed the comeback with a 15-11 victory in the final set, turning what had looked like a promising night for Chisago Lakes into a difficult ending to its season.

Despite the disappointment, Houle said she was proud of the way her team competed throughout the season and especially in the section championship.

"Although the loss was difficult, I could not be more proud of the fight our athletes showed and the way they continued to battle back," Houle said.

For Houle, the championship loss was a tough finish to a memorable first year leading the Wildcats, but she said there was plenty to appreciate about what her team accomplished.

"My first season as the head coach of Chisago Lakes volleyball was one filled with unforgettable memories, moments of success, challenges, and plenty of opportunities for growth," she said. "Throughout the season, this team continued to show determination, resilience, and a willingness to compete."

While the Wildcats ultimately came up one set short of their ultimate goal, their run to the section championship provided a foundation Houle hopes the program can continue building on.

The Wildcats will have some significant shoes to fill next season, however, as five seniors graduate from a team that came within striking distance of a state tournament appearance.

"We will certainly miss our five seniors, each of whom played an important role in shaping this team and contributing to our season," Houle said. "Their leadership, commitment, and impact on the program will not be forgotten.

"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to coach this group and for the support of our families, community, and school. This first season was special, and I am excited to build on what we accomplished as we continue to grow Chisago Lakes volleyball."

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