BREAKING: In a stunning display of resilience, Orangewood Christian overcame the absence of star player Ellie Enger to defeat Trinity Catholic in a nail-biting match, securing their place in the FHSAA Final Four. The Rams triumphed with scores of 21-25, 29-27, 25-17, 25-21 in a dramatic regional final held on their home court.
This victory marks Orangewood’s 10th Final Four appearance and extends their impressive season record to 26-4 with an unbroken streak of 11 consecutive wins. The state semifinal will take place on Monday at 4 p.m. or 7 p.m. at Polk State College in Winter Haven, with the championship match scheduled for Wednesday at 10 a.m.
The absence of Enger, a remarkable freshman setter and All-American contender with a staggering total of 303 kills this season, posed a significant challenge for the Rams. However, Coach Diane Langmo noted that despite the nerves, her team executed their game plan effectively against a formidable opponent.
“We knew what we had to do against this team,” Langmo stated after the match. The team’s determination shone through as they rallied back from a set down, showcasing their depth and teamwork.
Orangewood’s junior Kaleigh Langmo led the offensive charge with 24 kills and 23 digs, while her twin sister Kennedy Langmo added 18 kills and 18 digs. Their senior sister Jenna Langmo provided crucial support off the bench, contributing key kills that helped the Rams regain control in the final set.
The match’s pivotal moment came when Trinity Catholic, leading 1-0 and holding two match points in the second game, faced a crucial block by Orangewood’s ninth grader Sterling Wiepert, turning the tide in favor of the Rams.
As the Rams prepare for their next challenge, the stakes are higher than ever. Enger is currently participating in a training camp for the inaugural USA Volleyball Girls 17U National Team in Colorado Springs, which runs from October 15-21. If selected, she will miss the state tournament, a prospect that weighs heavily on the team.
With the FHSAA updating rankings to finalize matchups, fans eagerly anticipate how this thrilling journey will unfold. The other regional winners include No. 3 Divine Savior Academy (29-1), No. 4 Tampa Prep (20-7), and No. 6 First Baptist (30-1) from Naples, setting the stage for an electrifying semifinal showdown.
The excitement is palpable as Orangewood Christian continues its quest for glory, proving that even without their star player, their spirit and determination are unmatched. This victory not only boosts their confidence but also solidifies their place among the elite teams in Florida high school volleyball. Fans and supporters are encouraged to stay tuned for updates as this story develops!
