Exeter falls to Parkland in state semifinals

The task was a tough one. The Exeter Township High School girls volleyball team went up against Parkland in the PIAA Class AAA semifinals in Souderton on Nov. 11. Parkland came into the match undefeated at 24-0 and were the definite favorites in the match.

It looked as if the Eagles would pull off the upset when they won the first two games of the match. But Parkland never gave up as it won the next three games and pulled off the comeback victory over Exeter, 3-2. It means the season is over for the Lady Eagles, as they finish with an overall record of 21-2.

Exeter not only won the first two games of the best of five match, they held a 19-16 in game three. Parkland then scored the last nine points of the game to turn the momentum their way. After Exeter won the first two games by identical scores of 2-1, Parkland won the next three, 25-19, 25-17, 15-7.

It was a tough way to lose a match, but doubly disappointing for the Lady Eagles considering a victory would have put them in the state championship. Not only has no Exeter girls volleyball team ever been in a state championship match, but no Berks County school has ever made it to that point.

Sara Wesley had 18 kills, eight digs and three blocks to lead the Exeter squad. Shasnnon Restrepo added six digs and 43 assists, while Elizabeth Schultz had nine kills and 13 digs. Gabbie Stick chippd in with five kills, eight digs and three blocks.

There was some good news for the Exeter girls volleyball team. Four Lady Eagles were named to the All-District-3 girls volleyball team as chosen by the Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association. Sara Wesley and Shannon Restrepo were both named to the first team. Daniel Faust and Gabbie Stick were eached named to the second team.