Berkshire, Newbury fall in regionals

Berkshire fell, 3-1, in four sets to Apple Creek Waynedale in a Division III Barberton regional semifinal Nov. 1.

The Badgers led, 7-4, early in the first set before the Golden Bears went ahead, 12-10. Waynedale remained in control to take the set, 25-21.

Berkshire countered in the second set with a 25-22 victory to even the match. The Golden Bears won the third set, 25-18, then outlasted the Badgers, 28-26, in the fourth set to eliminate Berkshire.

The Badgers, Burton District champions, finished the season 16-10.

Senior outside hitter Madison Chapman compiled another outstanding effort with 17 kills, 22 digs and three aces. Senior setter Olivia Freiling recorded 24 assists and 19 digs.

Unforced errors hampered Berkshire’s effort, according to coach Joni Prots.

“We had been able to avoid that in the tournament so far but not tonight,” Prots said. “This group of seniors has done so much for the program, and I am proud of how they fought during this tournament run and we will miss them next year.”

• Wellsville eliminated Newbury, 3-0, from the state tournament in a D-IV Uniontown regional semifinal Nov. 1. The Tigers won the match with scores of 25-12, 25-20 and 25-19.

Newbury coach Michael Chaffee said the Black Knights struggled to establish momentum in the match. Wellsville’s 6-foot-2 middle hitter, Kiki Perry, challenged Newbury at the net.

Prior to the match, the Black Knights’ team bus received a police and fire escort out of the school. Newbury finished the season 22-4 and won the Southington District championship.

Senior outside hitter Caleigh Hamby led the Black Knights with nine kills, eight digs and four aces. Senior libero Haley Hamilton recorded 11 digs. Julia Elia, Malarie Eggleston and Erin Piczer added three kills apiece.

“Although you never want the season to end, tonight didn’t diminish the tremendous achievements of this team,” Chaffee said. “I’m so proud of our seniors for their leadership and commitment over the years. They have set the standard for how to play and how to lead.”