“We figured Randolph would throw a lot of junk over the net,” said Kuechenmeister. “You are always uneasy as a coach because you never know how your players will react to an unorthodox style of volleyball.

“To our girls’ credit, they handled it beautifully,” said Kuechenmeister. “We put together our most sound victory of the season.”

Carlie Wagner was NRHEG’s top weapon at the net, smashing 10 kills in the match. Jade Schultz and Paige Overgaard had four kills apiece, one more than Katie Cole and Noelle Bartness. 

Wagner also had four ace blocks up front.

Schultz was lethal from the service line, delivering nine aces. Arionna Neumann had a pair of aces. 

Wagner and Bartness led the defense with four digs apiece, one more than Kal Shurson. 

Bartness set up the offense, handing out 31 set assists. 

“All 13 girls got a chance to contribute to this victory,” said Kuechenmeister. “Hopefully, this win gives us some momentum as we move on.”

NRHEG plays a non-conference match against Maple River at home tonight.  

The Panthers return to conference action with road matches at Faribault BA Monday and Medford Tuesday. 

NRHEG 3, Randolph 0

Randolph             7    16    17     40

NRHEG          25   25    25    75

NEXT: Thursday-Maple River at NRHEG, 7:15 p.m.