The Grand Rapids Christian Volleyball team made their way to Lakewood High School to play in the Lakewood Invite this Past Saturday. The day began with pool play, where the Eagles faced off against Petoskey High School and Big Rapids, playing three sets to 25 points against each opponent. The Eagles earned a perfect record by winning all six sets decisively. They first faced Petoskey, emerging victorious with scores of 25-17, 25-7, and 25-8. This momentum carried over as they played Big Rapids, where they dominated with scores of 25-16, 25-11, and 25-6. Their flawless performance in pool play secured them the top seed heading into bracket play.

In bracket play, the Eagles met the number eight seed, Belding. True to form, Grand Rapids Christian continued their winning streak, winning in two sets with scores of 25-11 and 25-9. Next, the Eagles faced off against old conference rival Lowell High School. In this matchup, the Eagles maintained their intensity and focus, defeating Lowell with scores of 25-18 and 25-17. It was during this match that senior Madison Peal achieved a significant career milestone by recording her 1000th career dig, an accomplishment celebrated by her teammates so hard that the players from Lowell become confused and stopped playing the remainder of the point. We are so proud of Madi and this team!

Reaching the finals, GRC faced Forest Hills Eastern in a thrilling championship match. The Eagles won the match with scores of 22-25, 25-19, and 15-11, ultimately claiming the tournament title.

Throughout the ten-hour tournament, the Eagles played with relentless energy and commitment. Mallory Bremer led the offensive charge with an impressive total of 36 kills and a hitting efficiency of .350. Madison Peal not only celebrated her milestone but also contributed significantly with a total of 40 digs and achieved a team goal by maintaining a 2.3 passing average for the day. 

The Eagles' setters, Piper Cebulski and Taylor Frost, displayed great synergy, combining for a remarkable 85 assists—42 by Piper and 43 by Taylor. At the net, Mya McKinna was a key defensive player, contributing 6 blocks, followed closely by Sylvia Setsma with 4. Taylor Frost also excelled at the service line, dominating with 14 aces, which included an incredible 16-point service run against Big Rapids.

Overall, the Grand Rapids Christian Eagles left the Lakewood Invite not only with the championship trophy but also with renewed confidence and a deeper bond as a team, paving the way for a successful season ahead.