A significant week for the Rangers ended with some key matchups across the board. From district games to contests with top 10 opponents, FHC had some difficult tasks at hand this past weekend.

To end the first week after the conclusion of the regular season, the Rangers would open up districts with a home game versus Greenville. In this contest, senior Sophie Shields and sophomore Avery Weslow led the way, combining for 16 kills, 2 aces, 3 digs, 2 assists, and 4 receptions. Elsewhere, senior Brooklyn Connor and junior Sarah Dunn took care of business up front as they acclaimed 15 kills, 1 ace, 1 solo block, 7 digs, and 6 receptions.

Moving on, the Rangers traveled to Lowell to face off against a fierce round of opponents, including teams from the eastern side of the state such as number 15 Clarkston, number 13 Lake Orion, and first-ranked Marian (Brother Rice’s sister school.) The Rangers would also see both the home team in the Lowell Red Arrows and an up-north school in #23 Cadillac. The team was excited to get a chance to help move up in the state rankings before heading back into districts.

“This weekend was important because it showed that we could beat and compete well with other tops teams around the state and showed how successful our team is,” junior Averie Zaschak said.

FHC took home victories against Cadillac 2-0, Lake Orion 2-1, and Lowell 2-0 while unfortunately tying Clarkston 1-1 and losing to Marian 0-2. All of these games would be tough-fought with closer and higher scores that made the Rangers work extra hard for victory. The Rangers were able to pull out of the Lake Orion contest thanks to a big game from Sarah Dunn, as FHC would win that final third set in a well-played 15-11 victory. The Lowell win would also help the Rangers extend their season record against the Red Arrows to 2-0, as this is the first year in a decent while since the Rangers have been able to come out victorious.

“This team was very excited for the tournament this weekend; there were the best teams from the east side and west side of the state,” head coach Natalie Roelfzema said. “Anytime we play Lowell, this team is hyped and determined to prove to Lowell that we are the better team.”

The 36-5-3 Rangers will move back into district play this upcoming week where they will look to move forward in the playoffs.