The Oriole volleyball team placed two players on the All-Conference team for the Western Cloverbelt Conference. Emily Brenner earned first team, and Lily Hoel was second team.

Going into WIAA Regional play, which was Tuesday night in Baldwin, the Orioles are 5-5 overall on the season, finishing conference play 3-4.

The Orioles are looking for a win in that first Regional game that would advance them to play at Bloomer Thursday.

“The team has been practicing hard and making steady improvements on the little things,” said coach Rainy Antolak. “As we have gained experience, our confidence and trust in each other has also increased. This is huge for us as we head into the playoffs.”

The Orioles finished conference play with a couple difficult matches with Altoona and Regis.

“We had lead in some sets against both teams, but we were unable to hold those leads. We had some communication breakdowns and lack of execution in some areas which hurt us. However, this group has shown great mental toughness at times this season, and they realize we must stay on an emotional even keel when the game is on the line,” said Antolak.

Photos by Heather Vait.

Emily Brenner (right) was first team All-Conference and Lily Hoel was second team.