Rangely | The Rangely Invitational Volleyball Tournament unfolded over an exhilarating weekend, with an array of competitive teams, including strong contenders like Grand Valley, Telluride, DeBeque, Dove Creek, Hayden and Cedaredge converging for spirited clashes.
The Panthers commenced the tournament with a resounding display of dominance, orchestrating a commanding 2-0 victory against Grand Valley. Their powerful performance was underscored by a triumphant 25-12 first set, followed by a closely fought 25-22 win in the second set.
The subsequent match proved to be a true test for the Panthers as they squared off against the formidable Telluride team. After an initial setback, the home team showcased resilience and adaptability. They rallied with a spectacular 25-16 victory in the second set, steering the match towards an electrifying deciding set. The third set unfolded as a nail-biting battle, with the Rangely Volleyball team exhibiting commendable composure, ultimately securing a hard-fought 15-13 victory.
Amid escalating anticipation, the championship match pitted the Rangely Panthers against Dove Creek, a team renowned for its robust offensive strategy. Although the Panthers retained control over both sets, they encountered well-timed surges from the Bulldogs, which led to a narrow 2-0 defeat. The final scores of 25-21 and 25-20 in favor of Dove Creek marked a valiant effort by the Panthers.
As the dust settles, the Rangely Panthers are gearing up for their encounter against the North Park Wildcats, scheduled for Aug. 25, 2023, in Rangely, Colorado. The junior varsity match is slated to kick off at 4 p.m., followed by the varsity showdown at 5 p.m. Anticipation runs high as supporters eagerly await another round of exhilarating volleyball action.