
Huxley, IA – The Ballard volleyball team wrapped up a remarkable season Tuesday night in a thrilling five-set regional semifinal against Dallas Center-Grimes. Playing in front of a packed home crowd, the Bombers pushed the Mustangs to the limit but ultimately fell 3-2, with scores of 20-25, 25-21, 16-25, 26-24, and 15-13.
The first set saw Ballard come out strong, securing a 25-20 win on the back of dominant net play and sharp defense. The Bombers maintained their energy into the second set but struggled to hold back Dallas Center-Grimes' balanced attack. The Mustangs answered back to even the match at 1-1 with a 25-21 win.
In the third set, Ballard found their rhythm once again, delivering powerful serves and solid team coordination to earn a 25-16 victory and retake the lead. However, Dallas Center-Grimes continued to press, narrowly edging out Ballard in a hard-fought fourth set, 26-24, forcing a decisive fifth set.
The fifth set was a battle of wills as both teams fought point-for-point. The Bombers fought valiantly but ultimately fell just short, with Dallas Center-Grimes claiming the set 15-13 and securing their spot in the regional final.
The heartbreaking loss concludes the Bombers' season with a 20-17 record, including a strong 5-3 performance in conference play.