Pekin Closes Season in VB Regional

NEW SHARON – Pekin volleyball coach Jordan Mohs knew her team had a tall challenge when they entered Class 2A regional play Wednesday at North Mahaska. They had height and just one loss on the season. Pekin battled but fell in three sets, 25-18, 25-11 and 25-14.

The night was kind of bittersweet for Mohs as her two seniors, Kayse Miller and Ava Gillam played their final games for the Panthers. Both were freshmen when Mohs arrived and competed for Pekin as they improved each year.

Wednesday, in two of three sets, the Panthers were within striking distance before North Mahaska was able to pull away. In set one with the score at 16-16, NM jumped ahead 19-17, then 22-18. The Warhawks stepped up and did not allow another point. NM led 3-2 in set two, then rolled away behind five ace serves.

The Panthers led the first third of the final set by at least two points. Pekin was up 12-11 when North Mahaska’s Sydney Andersen served up an ace and gave the Warhawks a 15-13 lead. From there NM outscored the Panthers 10-1 to take the win and end the Panthers’ season.

Mohs said the key to competing was teamwork.

“We talked all week about playing as a team and supporting each other,” said Mohs. “I told them that no matter what happens, play together. Everyone gave 110 percent tonight and that is what we have been talking about.”

Reece Brisby recorded four kills and Kayse Miller added three. Carlie Gambell and Ava Gillam each had a block.

Mohs was impressed with North Mahaska’s hitting.

“They were really aggressive and have really good hitters,” said Mohs. “They have height to go with it, but I am proud of the way we competed.”

Mohs was sad to see the end of the high school careers of Miller and Gillam.

“It is kind of bittersweet,” said Mohs. “They were my first class when I came here four years ago. They have been great to watch as they grew as players and young women. “Ava Has grown in confidence over the four years and Kayse started all four years.”
North Mahaska, 22-1, will face No. 9 Iowa City Regina in Iowa City on Monday. Pekin closes the 2024 campaign at 7-12.