Sports have a way of bringing out the best in both athletes and fans, especially when determination meets teamwork. That was on full display as the New Ulm Cathedral Greyhounds showed grit and precision to secure a commanding sweep over the Springfield Tigers in a Tomahawk Division volleyball clash. The result, a decisive Greyhounds down Tigers in 3 sets victory, highlighted not just Cathedral’s skill but also their growing confidence as a team.
Greyhounds Down Tigers in 3 with Strong Start
From the first serve, Cathedral made it clear they were in control. They took Set 1 by storm, delivering a 25-13 win. Early kills from Maddy Hazuka and Ava Krueger turned momentum back in Cathedral’s favor after a short Springfield rally. Then came an incredible 10-0 run led by Abbey Hillesheim’s pinpoint serving, including three aces, that closed the door on any Tiger comeback.
The energy was electric, and you could sense the Greyhounds were locked in, fully embracing the “team-first” mentality that has become their identity. This early dominance laid the foundation for why fans will remember this clash as Greyhounds down Tigers in 3 rather than just another win.
Confidence Shines in Set 2
Cathedral carried their momentum into Set 2, racing to a 14-6 lead with powerful kills from Jayde Altermatt. Springfield showed heart, clawing back behind Kendall Krueger’s offensive spark. The Tigers cut the deficit to five, but Cathedral’s depth proved too much. Ashlyn Hillesheim’s ace widened the gap, and even as Springfield pushed with late kills, Cathedral calmly closed it out 25-19.
What stood out wasn’t just the scoreline but the composure Cathedral displayed. Head coach Becky Wilfahrt didn’t need to call a single timeout the entire match, a testament to the team’s maturity. Their seniors played a pivotal role in keeping spirits high, showing why unity often wins as much as talent.
Greyhounds Down Tigers in 3 with a Nail-Biting Finish
If the first two sets showed dominance, Set 3 proved resilience. Springfield came out fighting, refusing to go down quietly. After falling behind 13-8, the Tigers surged back with a 7-1 run fueled by aces from Jada Reese and Kendall Krueger, even taking a 15-14 lead.
But Cathedral answered with poise. Ava Krueger powered a kill to spark a five-point rally, supported by a clutch block from Ashlyn Hillesheim. With Springfield refusing to quit, the Greyhounds leaned again on their leaders. Ava delivered two more kills, and Altermatt sealed the deal with a perfectly timed ace, completing the sweep 25-20. It wasn’t just a win, it was a statement. The scoreboard read Greyhounds down Tigers in 3, but the story was about teamwork, perseverance, and belief.
Star Performances Power the Sweep
Several Greyhounds delivered standout efforts in this memorable match. Ava Krueger showcased her all-around game with eight kills, five digs, and a block. Shay Wilfahrt matched her with eight kills, three digs, and two aces, bringing energy in key moments. Setters Margo Finstad and Abbey Hillesheim combined for 19 assists, with Abbey adding five aces that crushed Springfield’s rhythm. Jayde Altermatt also contributed at both ends with three kills, six digs, and a block.
Springfield, despite the loss, had bright moments. Kendall Krueger was outstanding with eight kills, 11 digs, and two aces, while Olivia Simonson added four kills and nine digs. Setter Sophie Mude showed promise with seven assists and two aces, and Taylor Roiger chipped in six assists. Their fight in Set 3 demonstrated that the Tigers are learning and improving, even in defeat.
Greyhounds Down Tigers in 3: What It Means
For Cathedral, this victory lifted their record to 8-9 overall and 4-1 in the Tomahawk Division, showing that they are finding form at the right time. Their seniors have stepped up as vocal leaders, creating a strong team spirit that makes them hard to rattle.
For Springfield, now 2-12 overall and 1-4 in the division, it was another tough loss but also a chance to see their progress. After starting the season 0-9, they’ve gradually grown stronger, winning more sets and showing resilience. Matches like this, even in defeat, can serve as steppingstones toward a brighter future.
Greyhounds Down Tigers in 3: Looking Ahead
The schedule doesn’t slow down. Cathedral will host Sleepy Eye next, looking to build on their momentum and push for a strong finish in the division. Springfield, meanwhile, will regroup and prepare to host Cedar Mountain, seeking to turn their flashes of improvement into full match victories.
One thing is clear, this matchup was more than just a regular-season contest. The night encapsulated what high school sports are all about: growth, teamwork, and the determination to keep moving forward no matter the odds. Fans left knowing they had witnessed a defining moment where Greyhounds down Tigers in 3 became more than a headline, it became a story of spirit.
Disclaimer: This article is created for informational and editorial purposes only, based on publicly available details from the match. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by New Ulm Cathedral, Springfield High School, or their athletic programs.
