For the fourth time in the last decade, the NCOE Fighting Cardinals are headed to the IHSA Volleyball State Finals after earning a two-set victory over Okawville in the Class 1A Super-Sectional at Wayne City on Monday.
NCOE set the tone early in the match, controlling the opening set from start to finish on their way to a dominant 25-10 win.
The second set, however, was far more competitive. Okawville settled in and pushed NCOE throughout the frame, leading to a dramatic back-and-forth battle. The two teams traded runs and momentum multiple times. With neither side running away the set extended well beyond the standard 25 points. The Cardinals showed their composure, edging out a 31-29 win to secure the sweep and the Super-Sectional title.
With the victory, NCOE improves to 38-2 on the season and advances to the Class 1A State Semifinals. The Cardinals will face Stockton on Friday at 9 AM at CEFCU Area on the campus of Illinois State University in Normal.
A win would send NCOE to the State Championship match for the first time in school history. If they advance, they would meet either Tremont or Cissna Park in the title match on Saturday.
The IHSA State Finals will be broadcasted on the NFHS Network. The link to Friday’s match is attached below. It does require a paid subscription.
Link – https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/ihsa/gam2853b43f6b
Best of luck to coach Melton and the Fighting Cardinals!