West Platte didn’t even end up with the chance to upset the top seed.
In the Class 1 District 15 first round, the Bluejays lost in three sets in a minor upset against fifth-seeded Wellington-Napoleon, which won the final two sets to knock off the fourth seed Tuesday, Oct. 18 in Lone Jack, Mo. The Tigers’ 13-25, 25-19, 25-14 win advanced them to face No. 1 Northland Christian, which went on to win the district title.
West Platte finished at 15-12-1.
“Our girls didn’t give up, and I’m proud of them for that,” West Platte coach Amber Guthrie said. “It’s a tough way to end our season, but I think the girls have a lot to be proud of this year.”
After finishing second in the KCI Conference standings, West Platte ended up in one of Class 1’s most difficult district fields.
Jordan Schultz, one of four seniors, led the Bluejays’ attack with nine kills, while senior setter Megan Kottman totaled 33 assists. Nealie Niemeier (team-high nine digs, four kills) and Alexa Raney (two digs) were the other seniors to play their final game.
Daire Stelljes topped West Platte with five service aces, while Schultz added three.
Guthrie returned to head coaching duties for West Platte this season after a year away. She led the Bluejays to their last playoff appearance in 2012, and they now have at least eight consecutive winning seasons, according to Missouri State High School Activities Association records.