The Varsity Volleyball team kicked up the heat a few degrees in the gym in Perry today with a 6-0, 1st place tournament finish. The Bulldogs opened pool play unbeaten by defeating Laingsburg 25-16 & 25-13, Dansville 25-11 & 25-14, and Montabella 25-19 & 25-7. Ionia faced Perry in the opening round of Gold Bracket play, defeating them 25-12 & 25-15. They were then challenged by Dansville in the semi finals, but secured the win by rallying together as a team 25-22, 12-25, 15-9. In the finals, Ionia faced a strong Birch Run team. After splitting the first two sets 25-21 & 17-25, the Bulldogs came back onto the court with determination and fire in their eyes. After trading points the first half of the set, a strong defensive effort secured the serve for the Bulldogs. Senior setter and Co-Captain Cassidy Casillas stepped behind the service line at 9-8 and went on one of the strongest service runs of the day, including 4 aces! With a strong defensive effort behind her from the team, the Bulldogs closed out the match and tournament victory!

Offense played aggressive and pushed points throughout the day. Tess Griffith led the Bulldogs with 42 kills and Co-Captain Danika Fyan added 40. Kassidy Casillas had 101 assists on the day. Danika Fyan tallied 9 blocks throughout the 6 matches, and Tess Griffith added 8. Kassidy Casillas led behind the service line with 11 aces, and Grace Martinez added 9 and Drew Wachowski added 8. The defense had another stellar day with Paige Castillo tallying 49 digs and Grace Martinez adding 26. The team worked hard to get out to a quick, strong start and continued to rally back and focus forward throughout the day. Coach Wenzel was proud of the team's drive and determination that led to securing an opening weekend title! Great job Bulldogs!!!

The Ionia Bulldogs Volleyball teams open conference play on Tuesday, August 31st in Eaton Rapids.