Coming into the 2015 volleyball season, Galena did not seem to be set for a winning season. The team had lost four starters – three due to graduation and senior Sophie Hefel for the season due to injury.

“We have struggled with getting used to the new rotation without Sophie in the lineup,” said senior defensive specialist Brooke Einsweiler,“but we are starting to get it.”

The Pirates’ season started off great. The team was undefeated against conference teams until mid-season when they dropped a heartbreaking loss against Eastland in a game full of controversial calls at Eastland’s gym. Two of the Pirates five losses this season have been to Eastland.

The Lady Pirates also dropped a loss to the Wildcats of River Ridge on October 22, which also happened to be their senior night. The gym was packed with fans from both sides. The Pirates won the first game easily 25-11. Then the Pirates seemed to have let up and the Wildcats won the next two games 25-21 and 26-24.  

“We want to forget that it happened, but we can’t because we have to see the learning aspect of it,” said junior outside hitter and setter Kristen Calvert, “We have to learn that we have to be 100% focused all of the time.”

As of right now, the varsity has 30 wins. There has only been four teams in Galena volleyball history to reach 30 wins, and this very special group of girls made it happen.

“Our goal was to have 80 wins throughout the program as a whole, and to be a 30 win varsity team,” said junior middle hitter Natalie Calvert.

As of right now, the varsity has 30 wins. There has only been four teams in Galena volleyball history to reach 30 wins, and this very special group of girls made it happen.

Not only does this team have the ability to go deep into the post-season, but they have a bond that seems to be almost unbreakable.

“The best part about being on this team is being able to spend time with my second family,” said Einsweiler”, “I love every one of the girls on our team!”

The lady pirates will take on the winner of the match up between the East Dubuque Warriors and the Hornets of Scales Mound in the Regional Semi-final on Tuesday night. The Lady Pirates are seeded first in the regional.