The Ainsworth Bulldogs hosted the South Loup Bobcats on Oct. 22 for a 5-set game. This game marked the Bobcats' final matchup of the regular season, setting the stage for postseason play.

This game was the Bulldogs’ Pink Out, and the Bobcats, Bulldogs and their fans turned out in full force to support the cause.

The game started off strong, with the Bobcats quickly taking an early lead. Both teams fought hard for every point but the Bobcats kept the lead ending the set at 25-12.

One highlight from the game is when sophomore Charlie Pandorf passed the ball to senior setter Riata Remond for a perfect set up to freshman middle hitter Emma Stallbaumer for a kill down the middle.

“The team has been putting in tremendous effort, and it’s paying off as they’re playing their best volleyball right when it matters most,” Head Coach Michelle Preston said.

The Bulldogs went into the second set with a drive to win and got their redemption in the second set taking it 25-23.

The third set was close with the Bobcats and Bulldogs trading points back and forth. The Bobcats gained the lead under the strong serving game of senior Greeley Hurpek. The Bobcats took the set 25-23.

In the fourth set, senior libero Danah Baldwin was unable to play due to an injury, leaving a critical position to fill. Senior Anna Tullis rose to the challenge, stepping in as libero for the fourth set.

The Bobcats went into the fourth set ready to win the game. The Bobcats struggled at the start of the set but came together to play with and for each other. The Bobcats took the fourth set 25-23 to win the game.

“Even though it was a tough game, I’m still proud of us for pushing through and securing another win,” freshman Rae Hagler said.