Thursday night in Kalkaska was the place to be, when the Grayling Vikings came to play the Kalkaska Lady Blazers in another M-72 rivalry game. The Vikings came away with a 3-1 match win (20-25, 25-23, 23-25, 22-25), but the hard-fought contest was a treat for fans to watch.

Game one started the exciting play when Grayling jumped out to an early lead before Kalkaska stormed back with great defensive saves and timely offense. Even though the Blazers lost game one, the comeback momentum helped them jump out to an early lead in game two, one they were able to maintain until they pulled out the 25-23 victory. Baylee West’s strong play from outside led the Blazers’ game two attack, and more outstanding defensive saves spurred the team to victory.

Game three was another back and forth battle as both teams struggled to gain any kind of consistent rhythm, and both teams faltered from the service line. But down the stretch the Vikings found a few key points and held on for the win. In the final set of the night, Kalkaska held the lead until Grayling took it for good, 22-23, and then finished the match with strong service for the 22-25 win.

Kalkaska was led offensively by Sophomore Violet Porter who had 11 kills, a big block, and great net play. Senior Baylee West added 7 kills of her own, many coming in the exciting finish of set two. The team served 92% for the second night in a row, including 100% service from Junior libero Alli DeVol and Senior Bailey West.

Kalkaska will enjoy a long weekend off, and then be back at for the Pink Out fundraiser game Monday night. JV 2 will play against the cross-country team at 5:30, JV 1 will play against the boy’s soccer team at 6:30, and the varsity squad will square off against the football team at 7:30. Come support the girls, and be a part of this epic night of fundraising as Kalkaska sports stands with those who are fighting the fight against cancer.