URGENT UPDATE: Ada-Borup-West swept Red Lake Falls in a commanding victory during the Minnesota Section 8A semifinals on October 24, 2023. The Cougars showcased their strength with a decisive score of 25-17, 25-10, 25-12 at Lysaker Gymnasium, powered by star player Malayna Syverson.
Syverson, a towering 6-foot-4 middle blocker and North Dakota State commit, delivered a stunning performance with 22 kills, including 10 in the first set. This victory propels Ada-Borup-West into the section championship against East Grand Forks Sacred Heart, scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. in Crookston.
The Cougars, now boasting a record of 22-8, look to continue their momentum after previously handing Sacred Heart its only loss of the season. “We just have to put a lot of effort in,” Syverson stated in a post-match interview on Your Live Event. “We’ve built as a team since the Sacred Heart matchup, and so have they. We’ll lock in and practice and get to the game.”
Red Lake Falls, which ended its season at 24-7, previously eliminated defending section champion Kittson County Central in the quarterfinals. Despite a strong showing, they struggled to contain the Cougars’ offense. The first set saw nine ties before Ada-Borup-West seized control, demonstrating resilience and teamwork.
“I think right away we came out with some nerves,” Syverson added. “If you’re not nervous, something’s wrong. We pulled it together and built some momentum.”
Joining Syverson in the spotlight was teammate Morgan Engel, also committed to NDSU, who contributed 14 kills to the team’s impressive performance. The Cougars surged ahead early in the second set with a quick 4-0 lead and maintained dominance throughout the match.
As the Cougars prepare for the championship clash, excitement builds within the community. Fans and players alike are eager to see if Ada-Borup-West can capture the title and continue their strong postseason run.
Stay tuned for updates as the Cougars aim for victory in the upcoming championship game!
