GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- With a busy schedule featuring at least two matches every week, the Ottawa Hills Bengals varsity volleyball team continues to build chemistry and gain valuable experience. Last week was no exception, as the Bengals powered through a demanding stretch of competition against multiple opponents.
At the Cedar Springs Tri Meet, Ottawa Hills dropped a hard-fought, three-set match to host Cedar Springs (25-19, 17-25, 21-25) but rebounded with a strong showing to defeat Central Montcalm in straight sets (25-23, 25-16).
The Bengals' effort was backed by strong individual performances. Jana Kalumbula had an outstanding week across the board, leading the team with 20 kills, 30 digs, and five blocks. Taniya Radden added 14 kills and matched Kalumbula with five blocks of her own, helping anchor Ottawa’s defense at the net.
In the back row, Maya Teft and Kalumbula were standouts on serve receive, logging 10 and 14 three-point passes respectively. Teft also contributed 23 digs, while Saffron Murphy-Shingola added 22 to help keep the Bengals fighting for every point.
At the service line, Amanda Stotenbur and Lynne Merkel each delivered three aces. Stotenbur also led the Bengals in assists with 30, while Merkel added 12, helping to drive the team's offensive rhythm.
As the regular season winds down, the Bengals are aiming to add a few more wins to their record before postseason play begins. With matchups still ahead against Forest Hills Eastern, Sacred Heart Academy, Kelloggsville, Grand Rapids Christian, and Grand River Prep, the Bengals have plenty of opportunities to build momentum.
The regular season will conclude with a final game against crosstown rival, Grand Rapids Union, on October 30, then MHSAA Districts kick off the first week of November. The team is locked in and ready to make each match count as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
