STATE VOLLEYBALL: Pierre comes up short once again

By Jake Nordbye, Journal correspondent | Thursday, November 27, 2008

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RAPID CITY — After losing to Rapid City Stevens in the championship game in Sioux Falls a year ago, Pierre surprised most by making it back to the state title game again this year.

However, a championship proved not to be in the cards as the Lady Governors finished runner-up for the second time in two years.

“I think our season was full of ups and downs, it was sort of a roller coaster ride, so it was quite a step to even be here,” said Pierre head coach Kacy Kienholz. “I don’t think anyone would have guessed we’d be in the championship match.

Pierre seemed poised to capture its first-ever volleyball title after  beating Watertown in the first round and then ousting No. 1 seeded Aberdeen Golden Eagles in the semifinals, but Kienholz felt the team played tight in the final.

“I think in a big match like this you can’t play scared, and I think we did tonight,” said Kienholz. “But we’re heading in the right direction. We have excitement about volleyball back in Pierre and that’s a huge step for us.” 

Senior middle hitter Steph Paluch, who was an all-tournament selection, and led the Governors in kills, said she feels as if she’s had a great career though she made it twice to the finals but came up short.

“I’ve had a great career here,” said Paluch. “This year wasn’t the same as last year at all. Last season we had a great season and came away with a disappointing loss. This year, we got back where we wanted to be, and I don't think anyone expected that, but we just couldn’t finish.” 

Pierre had only been to one state tournament before 2006, since they have been to three, also finishing as the consolation champion in 2006. With two straight runner-up showings, the Lady Govs volleyball program looks to be heading in the right direction.